Japan's Wellness: Healing for Humans & Animals

Hello,

my name is Yayoi from Tranquwell.

I was watching TV one day and saw an African man with a serious illness talking about how much better he felt after using "tsubo" (acupoints to boost immunity).
I was shocked – if it could help someone with a severe illness, could it really be that effective?
Since I was healthy, I decided to try massaging the acupoint of my dog, who hadn't been doing well at the time.

After a few days, my dog seemed to perk up. It was also heartwarming to see how content he looked while getting the massage. That experience sparked my interest in animal wellness care, and I've been studying it ever since, so I'd like to share what I've learned.
I'll also introduce an acupoint for humans to boost immunity later on!


Dog getting acupuncture


Massage for Animals


Many people find massage relaxing and beneficial for their bodies, and it seems animals experience similar effects. The licking that mothers do after giving birth isn't just an act of affection; it's also a form of massage that stimulates circulation in the offspring, boosting their immune system several times over. Plus, it's said to trigger the release of the 'happiness hormone' oxytocin, which promotes emotional well-being. It's fascinating how massage can have real physical and mental changes!


A mother sheep licking its newborn lamb


Animal licking doesn't seem to involve the refined techniques of human massage, so maybe those specific techniques aren't a big deal. I think it might be more like an affirmation – a way for the one giving the massage to show care, and for the one receiving it to reaffirm trust.
What do you think? Please share your thoughts in the comments!


Those sharp eyes...massage is a two-way street!


Shinkyu (Japanese acupuncture and moxibustion) and Acupressure for Animals


Acupoints, according to traditional East Asian medicine, are specific points located throughout the body. Stimulating these points through Shinkyu, acupressure, or massage is believed to alleviate health problems and promote well-being.


Leg acupoints and acupuncture


Now, the acupoint I mentioned earlier for boosting immunity is called “Ashisanri.”

Among the approximately 360 acupressure points throughout the body, there are several that are considered especially important. Ashisanri is even referred to as the “king of acupressure points,” and it's mainly used to regulate the gastrointestinal tract, addressing issues like stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. It's quite fascinating that the same point can be used for seemingly opposite symptoms like diarrhea and constipation, and also that stimulating a point on the leg can affect the digestive system."


Where Is It Located?


The location of Ashisanri in humans is roughly where your middle finger rests when you hook your thumb above the patella (kneecap) with your hand in an L-shape, as shown in the red circle in the image below.
Firmly but slowly press this area several times to stimulate it. When an acupuncturist pressed this point on me, it was much stronger than I expected, and I even yelled out in pain! But the shock of it did give me a burst of energy.


Ashisanri in humans


Ashisanri in dogs


For dogs, ashisanri is generally located around the areas shown in the image above. The recommended pressure for massage varies depending on the dog's size: about 1 pound for small dogs, about 2 pounds for medium dogs, and up to 6.5 pounds for large dogs. Since my own dog has weak knees, I massage him gently, supporting his body without applying too much force.
Veterinary hospitals that offer acupuncture are also increasing. Oriental medicine, which has fewer side effects and focuses on preventing illness, is becoming quite popular.


Animals and Hot Springs


Japan boasts many hot springs and is a popular travel destination, but it seems animals also enjoy hot springs. The sight of wild monkeys soaking in natural hot springs is a traditional winter scene in Japan, and there are even hot spring resorts specifically for horses. Apparently, some horses enjoy it so much they don't want to leave the bath!

Some hotels in hot spring areas even have onsen spaces for dogs or dog spas. The thought of a wellness trip with your beloved dog is both relaxing and exciting!


Capybara enjoying yuzu bath


Japanese wellness, which revitalizes both mind and body,
is also being applied to animals and continues to evolve. Just as wellness devices support our health management, innovative devices that visualize the health conditions of animals may be developed in the near future!

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