A salty dinner, water right before bed, a late night, a pillow that’s too flat… TCM files them all under one word: dampness.
Four Common Culprits
1. A rich, salty dinner. 2. Lots of water or alcohol in the hour before bed. 3. Staying up late, which TCM links to low Liver blood and shadows under the eyes. 4. A pillow that’s too low, so fluid drains from your face more slowly.
The TCM View
In TCM, morning puffiness is usually seen as “dampness” left behind when the Spleen isn’t transforming fluids efficiently. The area around the eyes is also where the Spleen, Stomach and Liver meridians pass, which is why a puffy face and under-eye bags so often show up together.
The 3-Minute De-Puff
Step 1: Glide a gua sha tool from behind your ears down to your collarbone, 10 strokes, to open the “exit” first.
Step 2: With your ring finger, sweep from the inner corner of your eye along the lower orbital bone out to your temple (Tai Yang, EX-HN5), 36 times.
Step 3: Hold a chilled roller or a cold spoon under your eyes, working from the inside out, for 1 minute.
If the puffiness doesn’t go down all day, or pressing on it leaves a dent, please see a doctor.
Shop the ritual: Morning De-puff Set →
Keep reading
- Overthinking and the Spleen: Why a Busy Mind Can Mean No Appetite and No Sleep
- Zu San Li (ST36): The Point Known as the “Longevity Point”
- Chinamaxxing: Why the West Is Suddenly Drinking Hot Water
We don't promise. We don't cure. We align. This article is for everyday wellness and cultural education only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a health concern, talk with your doctor first.
