A Qigong Facial Massage
As several organ meridians begin or end on the head, a qigong facial massage can be very beneficial for stimulation of qi. The following technique is particularly good for releasing any sinus congestion and bringing about a youthful complexion.
Make sure your hands are warm before you start any kind of massage. Rubbing them together vigorously a few times will help to do this.
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Lightly circle the palms of the hands all over the face. Then run the fingers through the scalp starting at the hairline and working towards the back of the head.
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Massage the forehead with one palm from right to left, as if removing all wrinkles and worries! Repeat about nine times.
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Place the middle finger of each hand on each side of the mouth. Smoothly rub upwards along the side of the nose and up to the hairline, then repeat back down to the mouth. Repeat about nine times. If there is any sinus congestion, use the joint of each thumb to vigorously rub up and down along the sides of the nose.
- With eyes closed, use the index finger or the knuckle of the thumb to lightly circle around each eye, gently pressing into the bone. Adjust pressure so that there is a pleasant sensation but not pain. Repeat about nine times then reverse direction. When you have finished, rub the hands together again to create warmth and place over the closed eyes, enjoying the feeling of relaxation for a few minutes before opening the eyes again.
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With the fingers of one hand lightly tap all around the mouth and cheeks to stimulate and heal the gums and teeth.
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With the back of one hand rub beneath the chin from side to side of the jawbone. Repeat about nine times. In this way qi is encouraged to circulate in the lymph system. This movement may also help prevent a double chin!
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Using the thumb and index finger of each hand, gently press all around each earlobe. Here you are stimulating important acupoints used in auricular acupuncture relating to every part of the body.
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Now, with hands still warm, place the palms over each ear with fingers pointed towards each other and touching the back of the head. Place the tip of each index finger over the top of the middle finger, then push it off so it taps the back of the head. You will hear a drumming sound or thud in the ears. This ear healing technique is called “Beating the Drums”. Repeat nine times.Finish the massage by circling the hands all over the face again until it feels warm and glowing with qi!