Opening the Donguibogam library...
Opening the Donguibogam library...

This content is a carefully translated version of traditional Korean medical records (Donguibogam) and its modern interpretations. While prepared by specialized medical translators, it is provided for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions.
Why are we experiencing this pain?
"Feeling bloated again? Perhaps you have suddenly felt stuffy right before an important presentation, or experienced unexplained abdominal discomfort after an enjoyable meal with friends. In the busy rhythm of modern life, dyspepsia has become all too common. Beyond simple discomfort, this persistent dyspepsia lowers concentration and can sour your entire mood. What if there were a secret technique that could clear it up in just 1 minute without medication?"

From the perspective of modern medicine, this LI4 acupressure method carries tangible physiological benefits. While it may appear to be simple hand pressure, the human body is interconnected in intricate ways. Stimulating LI4 helps activate the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is a primary conduit directly linking the brain with the digestive system and plays a central role in the parasympathetic nervous system. Under stress, sympathetic nerves become dominant, which suppresses digestion and leaves the stomach feeling heavy. Stimulating the vagus nerve shifts tone toward the parasympathetic nerve, encouraging gastric acid secretion, supporting intestinal motility, and facilitating digestive enzyme release to enhance overall digestive system performance. It functions much like refreshing engine oil so the digestive system can work smoothly. Furthermore, LI4 acupressure assists in pain relief, which is understood through gate control theory. The body processes various sensory signals, and strong tactile input from acupressure reaches the brain before the discomfort or pain signals of dyspepsia can, effectively closing the gate against those incoming pain messages. As a result, discomfort is diminished. Acupressure also encourages healthier blood circulation. When blood flow volume to the gastrointestinal tract rises, oxygen and nutrients are delivered more efficiently, allowing each digestive organ to function optimally. This directly aids digestion by supporting digestive secretions and intestinal motility. LI4 acupressure serves as an effective mechanism to unwind tension built up from stress, restore autonomic nervous system balance, and normalize digestion. It is a grounded way to support the body's innate recovery without relying on pharmaceuticals, opening a clear path through internal stagnation much like an open detour on a congested road.

2 steps you can take right now
First, find the hollow space on the back of your hand between the thumb and index finger. When stretching the thumb outward, locate the highest point of the muscle where the thumb and index finger bones branch away from the palm, then move about one finger joint of the index finger downward. Pressing firmly with the opposite thumb should produce a sensation that feels mildly tender yet relieving; this spot is LI4.
Once LI4 is located, apply firm, deep pressure with your opposite thumb. Rather than rubbing aggressively, maintain steady pressure while tracing small circles, or alternate between pressing firmly and releasing slowly. Inhale deeply while applying pressure for roughly 5 seconds, then ease off as you exhale. Repeating this cycle 10 to 12 times across both hands takes roughly 1 minute. Practicing this upon waking, after lunch, after dinner, or whenever your stomach feels heavy will offer meaningful relief.

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LI4 is located in the depression between where the bones of the thumb and index finger diverge. It mainly treats symptoms where the inside of the abdomen is full, known as abdominal fullness, and sounds come from the intestines, known as borborygmus.
We analyze Heo Jun's 'Donguibogam', a UNESCO Memory of the World, using modern data science and AI. Our goal is to reinterpret the wisdom of traditional medicine hidden in ancient texts to suit the lifestyles of busy modern people and deliver it in an easy-to-understand way.
Caution (Disclaimer): This content is for providing health information based on historical literature and cannot replace medical diagnosis and treatment. If you have any health problems, please consult a specialist (doctor/oriental medical doctor).