Body patting is a health preservation method based on traditional Chinese medicine theory. It is not just random patting, but should be based on an understanding of the body’s acupoints and meridians. According to traditional Chinese medicine, meridians and acupoints are distributed throughout the body and closely related to one’s health condition. By correctly stimulating them, the purpose of promoting blood and Qi circulation and strengthening the body can be achieved. When patting, suitable pressure is applied to various parts of the body using palms or fists to promote blood and Qi circulation and muscle relaxation.
Patting different parts brings various health benefits. For example, patting the shoulders helps strengthen tendons and bones, alleviate shoulder discomfort; massaging the Jiquan acupoint in the armpit broadens the chest, calms the mind, and improves blood circulation; patting the popliteal fossa not only invigorates blood and Qi, but also alleviates sciatic nerve pain; lightly patting the navel (Shenque acupoint) calms the mind, harmonizes blood and Qi; patting the cubital fossa promotes the flow of blood and Qi; patting the lumbar fossa helps eliminate fatigue. Especially, patting the lumbar back is particularly important for strengthening kidney Qi and clearing the lumbar back meridians, but it should be done with moderate intensity. It is not suitable for individuals with cardiovascular diseases or severe osteoporosis.
Correct patting technique is also crucial. For the lumbar back, it is advisable to use loosely clenched fists or open palms to alternate light and moderate pats, ensuring a comfortable but slightly painful sensation, with each patting session lasting no less than half an hour. In conclusion, patting therapy, as a simple self-care method, can contribute to health improvement when used reasonably. However, it is important to adjust the intensity based on individual constitution during practice and avoid excessive force.
