In my Shiatsu training we used Tapping as a kind of a warm up. We used our fingers or palms to tap along the body, along the major meridian lines to awaken our energy. It felt tingly and my skin seemed to buzz. Tapping along the body to awaken Qi feels refreshing and improves circulation. Acupressure in addition can help to become aware of energy levels and directs focus to specific areas, both practices can complement and deepen a Yin Yoga practice.
Qi cultivating practices of Chinese medicine
Acupressure massage and Tapping are practices that go back to Taoist principles, where also Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) originated from. These principles believe in the existence of vital energy or Qi that flows through the body along energetic pathways called meridians. When the flow of Qi is disrupted, it can lead to imbalances and issues that can manifest as something physical or emotional.
Acupressure massage involves applying pressure to specific points along these meridians to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms and restore energy flow. Tapping applies an invigorating massage and can also be performed along the meridian pathways or over certain areas of the body.
Acupressure massage offers a means of self-regulation—an opportunity for you to influence your own physiological and emotional states. The tool of acupressure helps to gain a deeper understanding of the body but most importantly to listen to your unique needs. This practice of self-healing puts you in the driver's seat of your well-being journey.
In this 25min video I combine a Qi -massage (Tapping) and acupressure of Liver-3 points with Yin Yoga poses to harmonise Qi. Explore tapping and or massaging the acupressure point a little longer if you like. These tools can be explored in isolation too!
Acupressure point Liver-3
According to TCM, the Liver organ system is associated with the smooth and harmonious flow of Qi through the body. Massaging the Liver-3 point can help balance liver energy, allowing your Qi to move freely and harmoniously. It is often used to release headaches or feeling frustrated/ on the edge, for stress reduction and may alleviate fatigue.
Liver-3 acupressure point
Found in the webbing between first and second toe in a depression where the metatarsal bones meet. This hollow depression is where we massage or hold with static pressure. Note: contraindicated in pregnancy!
To apply acupressure on the Liver-3 points, place one foot on the floor (or bend the leg and bring the foot closer to you) locate the point by feeling into your tissues. Then apply some pressure, massage or hold for a static pressure.. You can massage both sides simultaneously, but often it is interesting to feel the difference in sensation between the sides. If you are pregnant, I would not use this point as it is contraindicated during this time.
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The pressure applied during acupressure massage or by tapping meridian lines helps release tension and promotes circulation.
Let me know how you went if you got to practice and sense your Qi.
Best, Simone