Kidney 1, also known as Gushing Spring, is the first point on the kidney channel and the lowest point on the body.
I've used this point on myself to calm a busy mind when an important decision needs to be made. Kidney 1 has a strong downward moving action, allowing us to be a more powerful and compassionate version of ourselves.
Its location is “on the sole of the foot, between the second and third metatarsal bones, approximately ⅓ of the distance between the base of the second toe and the heel,” (Al-Khafiji, Baker, Deadman, 336).
Being the lowest point of the body where Qi (life force) enters the Kidney meridian, it grounds the Spirit through contact with the energy of the earth. From a Five Element perspective, Gushing Spring is a portal through which we draw upon the source, just like the tree’s roots drawing nourishment from the soil. If we lack strength, stamina, will or perseverance, Kidney-1 helps us tap into our reserves.
When we feel ungrounded, we may experience dizziness, headaches, anxiety, irritability, restlessness, stress, anxiety, anger and fear. Kidney 1 is an excellent point to pull that restless energy down, relieving symptoms and calming the mind.
From a Five Element perspective Kidney 1 restores the balance between fire and water in the body. A healthy balance between the Kidney's Water energy and the Heart's Fire energy enables a strong Heart/Kidney communication. Through this interrelationship, we are able to establish healthy self-love and a clear sense of purpose in our life.
Stimulating this point helps support “water and essence related” issues such as fertility issues, poor memory or oedema. It can also bring relief to symptoms brought on by menopause including hot flushes, night sweats, anxiety and headaches.
You can add Kidney 1 to your self care routine if you have mild symptoms such as problems sleeping or feeling anxious. You can massage Kidney 1 before bedtime, with your thumb. Consider adding essential oil of Vetivert or Lavender for added effect.
To locate Kidney 1, flex your foot – scrunch your toes in- the point is found about 1/3 of the way down the sole of the foot in the depression made in the pad of your foot when flexing. To activate the point, use your thumb to apply pressure in circular movements for a few minutes. Apply pressure to each foot.
If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, panic attacks and anger, ongoing acupuncture treatments from a trained acupuncturist will help you take control and guide you back to health.