What is SP15?
SP15 (Daeheung) is an acupoint on the Spleen meridian, a crucial meridian point that governs the spleen and digestive function. It is known as an acupoint that reflects the condition of the abdomen and is particularly effective in regulating intestinal function to improve digestive disorders. In Korean medicine, SP15 is also called a tender point around the navel and has long been valued as a point for tonifying righteous qi (正氣) and eliminating pathogenic qi (邪氣).
How to Find the Exact Location
The location of SP15 is determined using the navel (Shenque point) as a reference. SP15 is located 4 cun (approximately 12 cm) horizontally outward (left or right) from the navel. The exact location is in the abdomen approximately 4 finger-widths (4 cun) away from the navel level toward the side. It exists on both sides of the abdomen, and it is easier to locate when lying down in a relaxed state with the abdomen relaxed. Initially, it may be difficult to find the exact location, but if you feel slight pain or tenderness when lightly pressing this area, you have found the correct point.
Acupressure Technique
Step 1: Preparation Lie in a comfortable position and relax your abdomen. If your fingers are cold, wash them in warm water or rub your hands together to warm them up.
Step 2: Locate the Point Slowly find the point 4 cun horizontally outward from the navel using your fingers. The area where you feel slight tenderness is SP15.
Step 3: Apply Pressure Using your thumb or middle finger, slowly press and release for approximately 2-3 minutes vertically. Do not press too hard to the point of pain; the appropriate intensity should feel comfortable.
Step 4: Circular Pressure For greater effectiveness, use your fingers to apply pressure in circular motions, moving clockwise and counterclockwise 10-15 times each.
Step 5: Finish After acupressure, lie comfortably for about 5 minutes to allow the benefits of the acupoint to absorb into your body.
Key Benefits
- Constipation Relief: Promotes peristalsis of the colon to alleviate chronic constipation and abdominal discomfort caused by constipation.
- Diarrhea Relief: Regulates small and large intestine function to normalize loose stools and reduce intestinal hypersensitivity.
- Abdominal Pain and Discomfort Relief: Relieves intestinal cramps and promotes gas expulsion to improve abdominal bloating and pain.
- Enhanced Digestive Function: Activates spleen function to improve overall digestive capacity.
- Improved Appetite: As digestive organ function normalizes, appetite naturally improves.
When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?
It is best to apply acupressure to SP15 2-3 hours after eating. The optimal times are after waking in the morning, 2 hours after lunch, and before bed in the evening. When you have constipation, applying acupressure immediately after waking can help promote bowel movements, and when suffering from diarrhea, applying it about 30 minutes after eating is effective. For acute abdominal pain, it is better to apply acupressure after the symptoms have somewhat subsided, and for chronic digestive discomfort, it is recommended to apply acupressure regularly, 1-2 times daily.
Precautions
There are several precautions to keep in mind when applying acupressure to SP15. First, avoid applying pressure immediately after eating a large meal or on an empty stomach; it is best to do so 2-3 hours after eating. Second, pregnant women should avoid abdominal acupressure as much as possible, and extra caution is needed especially in early pregnancy. Third, do not apply acupressure if there are wounds or inflammation in the abdomen, and if you have severe abdominal pain or an abdominal condition, consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis before proceeding. Fourth, excessive stimulation can worsen symptoms, so it is important to maintain appropriate intensity. Fifth, if you suspect an acute abdominal condition (peritonitis, intestinal obstruction, etc.), seek immediate medical attention.
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