In spring, with continuous rainy weather, the air humidity increases, making the human body susceptible to dampness and possibly causing various health problems. In the view of traditional Chinese medicine, dampness is considered one of the root causes of many diseases. Among the six pathogenic factors of wind, cold, heat, dampness, dryness, and fire, the influence of dampness is particularly widespread.
Moxibustion, as a traditional therapy, is highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine as an effective way to resist dampness and maintain health. By stimulating specific acupoints, it can not only regulate the balance of qi and blood but also strengthen the body, prevent diseases. Some commonly used moxibustion points include:
– Guanyuan point, located about three inches below the navel, moxibustion at this point helps strengthen the body and tonify the kidneys. – Zhongwan point, located on the midline of the upper abdomen, four inches above the navel, can relieve gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and indigestion. – Fenglong point, located on the outer side of the lower leg, eight inches above the outer ankle, very effective in dispelling phlegm dampness, relieving headaches and dizziness. – Quchi point, the lateral end of the transverse crease of the elbow when bent, promotes the circulation of qi and blood, alleviates symptoms like rheumatic pain and hand numbness.
In addition to moxibustion, there are other ways to dispel dampness in daily life:
– Make good use of condiments such as scallions, ginger, garlic, they not only season the food but also help the body sweat, dispel dampness, and prevent colds. – Maintain moderate exercise, such as running, yoga, or tai chi, to promote blood circulation, accelerate the elimination of dampness. – Pay attention to avoiding damp environments, such as reducing outdoor activities on rainy days, avoiding sleeping directly on the floor, ensuring clothes and bedding are dry, timely open windows for ventilation, use appliances to maintain indoor air circulation.
The combination of dampness and heat can cause discomfort in the body, dampness encountering wind may turn into rheumatism, forming a chronic problem. Excessive dampness in the body can also lead to obesity. If feeling fatigued, physically heavy, loss of appetite, or abnormal skin, it may be a sign of excessive dampness. Therefore, adjusting dietary habits, reducing intake of greasy foods, increasing exercise, maintaining a good mindset are key to preventing the accumulation of dampness.
