The so-called kidneys are the root of the human body’s five internal organs, and the essence and vitality of a person are stored in the kidneys. It can be seen that good kidneys are very beneficial to human health, especially for males, as they are considered a symbol of dignity. In our country, there is a common phenomenon where when it comes to males, most people will associate them with the term “kidney deficiency.” This is not just a joke because in traditional Chinese medicine theory, it is believed that women’s liver is congenital while men’s kidneys are congenital, indicating the importance of kidneys to men. So how can we know the condition of the kidneys in daily life?
If males experience the following three phenomena early in the morning, it indicates that the kidneys are in very good condition.
1. Clear and bubble-free urine
Urine is generated by the kidneys, and observing the urine in the morning can reflect the health of the kidneys. When the kidneys are healthy, the urine is clear, transparent, and light yellow or amber in color, with no local sediment, cloudiness, bubbles, or strong odors. During urination, there should be no significant burning or pain sensation in the urethra. Occasionally, a slightly darker color is normal, indicating healthy kidneys. However, if the urine changes color, contains blood, has a strong odor, and persistent cloudiness or bubbles, it may indicate kidney issues.
2. No edema in the lower limbs, and a stiff waist
If there is no edema in the body, especially in the lower limbs in the morning, it indicates healthy kidneys. Additionally, stretching and yawning in bed can help awaken the body and also check the health of the kidneys. If there is no discomfort in the waist area when stretching, the waist is stiff, and there is abundant energy, it indicates healthy kidneys. If there is discomfort such as soreness, pain, it may indicate kidney qi deficiency.
3. Experiencing morning erections
The natural erection of males in the early morning between 4-7 a.m. in an unconscious state is called morning erection, which is an important indicator of male functionality. After a night of restful sleep, males wake up energized, often experiencing an erection. Occasionally, factors may lead to the absence of an erection, which is not a concern and indicates healthy kidneys. However, persistent absence of morning erections may need attention as there could be kidney issues.
So, how can males take care of their kidneys in daily life?
1. Soaking feet before bed
In traditional Chinese medicine theory, the soles of the feet are the convergence points of the body’s various meridians, which correspond to the internal organs, including the kidneys. Soaking feet can soothe the meridians, improve blood circulation, enhance metabolism, and help the kidneys metabolize toxins more efficiently, reducing the burden on the kidneys, promoting blood circulation, and nourishing the kidneys, with excellent health benefits.
2. Rubbing the soles of the feet
Rubbing the palms of both hands to generate heat, then using the left hand to rub the right sole and the right hand to rub the left sole, can be done once in the morning and evening, with 300 rubs per foot. There is an acupoint on the sole called Yongquan acupoint, which is related to the kidneys. Regular rubbing and massaging can invigorate the meridians, strengthening the kidneys, and replenishing kidney essence.
3. Practicing Tai Chi
Learning Tai Chi Quan in a park with fresh air in the early morning or at dusk can exercise muscles, invigorate bones and tendons, regulate breath, strengthen internal organs’ function, improve the circulation of qi and blood in the waist area, nourish kidney qi, and effectively treat kidney deficiency.
Additionally, to maintain healthy kidneys, it is important to avoid staying up late, maintain a regular sleep schedule of eight hours, and eat foods that nourish the kidneys, such as pig’s stomach, Chinese yam, walnuts, etc. Pig’s stomach is an excellent choice for kidney nourishment as it can nourish qi, suppress hunger, and stop spermatorrhea. Adding cooked lotus seeds can enhance the kidney-nourishing effect.
