Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) holds that the liver governs the flow of qi (energy) throughout the body. When qi flows smoothly, both the body and mind remain healthy. However, when faced with challenges, emotions can become strained, leading to a condition TCM refers to as “liver qi stagnation.
” This, in turn, can result in symptoms such as depression and insomnia. The liver meridian begins at the upper part of the big toe, travels up the foot, runs along the inner side of the lower leg and thigh to the groin area, then circles around the genital region, enters the lower abdomen, ascends alongside the stomach, passes through the nasopharynx, and reaches the top of the head. Hip-opening stretches, leg stretches, and side waist stretches all effectively stimulate the liver meridian.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend one knee to lift that leg, hugging it with both hands close to your body. Hold for a few seconds before lowering it.
Then switch to the other leg and repeat the exercise. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend one knee and place that foot on the back of a chair, keeping your thigh and calf parallel to the ground.
Maintain a straight back and lean forward, aiming to touch your chin to your foot. Then switch to the other leg and repeat the exercise. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Place one foot on the back of a chair with your toes pointed back, stretching the muscles behind your knee. Keep your back straight and lean forwar.