How to Effectively Massage Sore Muscles?
Muscle soreness can greatly impact daily life, affecting normal walking, daily sleep, and other activities. Commonly, massage is used to alleviate the discomfort, including methods such as stimulating Quchi point and Shouwuli point, aroma massage, pressure massage, and rubbing the neck muscles.
1. Massaging Quchi Point and Shouwuli Point
The name "Quchi" suggests a connection with water, as "qu" means hidden or unnoticed, and "chi" refers to a body of water or a confluence. Based on this, it can be inferred that Quchi point may have the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying the body. Redness, swelling, heat, and pain are often characteristics of local discomfort caused by muscle tension, making Quchi point a suitable choice for addressing these issues.
Shouwuli, on the other hand, indicates a location related to the hand and a distance or range associated with movement and activity. It can be speculated that the function of Shouwuli point is related to the movement and activity of the upper arm. Massaging Shouwuli point is believed to promote the smooth flow of qi and blood in the arm.
To perform this massage, locate the approximate position of the points and use your fingers to find tender points. If there is stagnation in the Yangming meridian, these points may feel sore or numb. Depending on the patient's tolerance, press Quchi point with your thumb, followed by Shouwuli point. Repeat this sequence several times, taking care not to apply too much pressure initially. Each treatment should last approximately 5-10 minutes.
2. Aroma Massage
Improper sitting posture, extended keyboard use, and poor sleeping positions can all lead to shoulder and neck pain and stiffness. Marjoram essential oil is a "panacea" for relieving muscle tension and spasms. Mixing it with rosemary or juniper essential oil (2 drops each) can effectively ease muscle tension in the shoulder and neck area.
3. Pressure Massage
Stand with your back against a wall and place a tennis ball between your shoulder blades. Slowly bend your knees and then stand up, allowing the tennis ball to "massage" your shoulders and neck against the wall. This can help relax the muscles in this area. When using a computer, keep the keyboard and mouse close to you and lean back against the chair to ensure even distribution of weight across your shoulders and relaxation of the muscles.
4. Rubbing and Lifting the Neck Muscles
Using a combination of rubbing and lifting motions with the thumb and the fingertips of the other four fingers, apply pressure to the neck muscles in a downward direction. Repeat this action several times to help relax the muscles.
