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K3 (inside of foot) Position of the distal Golden Point Kidney 3, for edema, urination, calming of nerves, and strengthening of willpower. C h e c k o u t A B M P 's l a t e s t n e w s a n d b l o g p o s t s . Av a i l a b l e a t w w w. a b m p . c o m . 67 Pumping or contracting the spleen is followed by acupressure on the stomach and spleen meridians, locally and distally, to move stagnant qi (Image 2). If there is sensitivity on the points, the therapist— with pressure not exceeding the weight of a coin—gently rotates counterclockwise (right to left as viewed by the therapist) until the sensitivity is gone. This disperses the stagnant qi. Then the therapist reverses the rotational flow and moves clockwise (left to right) to tonify or strengthen the qi in the organ. The rotation of fingers or thumbs on acupressure points is based on ancient TCM principles of acupuncture for propagating and enhancing qi flow. As part of a comprehensive body- mind approach, the next step is to address distal points (found on the limbs) of the spleen, stomach, kidneys, and liver to create an abundant flow of qi that pushes the circulatory system. Through the use of certain key points, named "Golden Points" by some master acupuncturists in ancient China (gold, because of their high value in healing), a cluster of issues are successfully addressed. 2 This could include balancing excessive emotions like anger, fear, worry, sadness, and hysteria. Over time, these emotions can turn toxic as they become deeply embedded in the psychological makeup of the client. One only has to read Hans Selye's research on the effects of stress on the human body 3 and mind to understand the importance of finding that balance. In his theory of General Adaptation Syndrome, Selye showed that the body has a general response to demands made by stress that are either positive or negative. He proved that the syndrome induced hormonal autonomic responses, which, when left unchecked, can lead to ulcers, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, kidney disease, and allergic reactions. Such a complex reaction, therefore, has to be treated with a set of acupressure points that address multiple physiological and organ systems. LET THE EMOTIONS DRAW A MAP When the emotional functions of the organs involved in lymphatic function are revealed, Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome and the long-lasting effects of stress on the whole body make perfect sense. The liver is in charge of anger; the spleen and stomach (partners in the 24-hour circadian rhythm of qi) handle worry, concern, and obsessive thinking; and the kidneys oversee fear and fright. When these emotions are excessive, stress is generated on multiple organ and physiological systems. A comprehensive body-mind approach is then necessary. As an experienced TCM therapist, my first question to the client, after finding out what has brought him or her to my clinic, is: What emotion rules your life or what emotion has lately been taking over your life? The answer can vary greatly, but in TCM, it can be principally narrowed down to four main categories: fear, anger, worry, and joy. It is only when there is an excess or deficiency of these four emotions that health issues emerge. The answer to my question can then lead me to a formula of acupressure points that address the client's ailments successfully and economically. Overall, the guiding goals in selecting all these acupressure points are increasing circulation and lymph flow; detoxifying the lymphatic system and chronic negative emotions; calming inflammation, both myofascial and organ-related; and boosting the immune system. A typical distal acupressure protocol for yin edema starts at the feet and legs—all distal to the organs involved in edema—and progresses to the hands and arms. Also, by selecting mainly the Golden Points, A GLOBAL APPROACH TO LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE Golden Point Spleen 6, where the liver, spleen, and kidney channels cross. Pressure to this point calms the mind, increases circulation and energy, and regulates metabolism. 3 4