What is Renying (ST9)?
Renying (人迎, ST9) is an acupoint on the Stomach Meridian of Foot-Yangming, located at the front of the neck. Its name means “welcoming people,” and it marks a convergence point where important meridians pass through the neck. In traditional East Asian medicine, stimulating this acupoint has been used to promote qi and blood circulation in the throat and upper respiratory tract, and to help regulate high blood pressure.
How to Locate the Acupoint Accurately
Finding Method: The acupoint is located approximately 1.5 cm to the side of the center of the front of the neck. Slightly tilt your head back and gently press your fingers on the neck to feel the pulse of the carotid artery. Renying (ST9) is located directly in front of this carotid artery pulse point (toward the center of the neck). It exists on both the left and right sides of the neck, typically at the midpoint between the lower jaw and collarbone. Using a mirror to help locate it initially is helpful.
Acupressure Method
Step 1: Sit or lie in a comfortable position and relax the muscles of the neck and shoulders. Step 2: Apply gentle pressure to the Renying location using the tip of your thumb or index finger. Step 3: Carefully avoid pressing the carotid artery and begin with light pressure, slowly making circular motions. Step 4: Maintain the acupressure for about 30 seconds to 1 minute at a time, keeping a comfortable pressure without pain. Step 5: Maintain a relaxed state while breathing deeply.
Main Benefits
- Relief of High Blood Pressure: Renying is located directly beside the carotid artery, making it effective for regulating blood pressure. Regular stimulation helps lower blood pressure.
- Relief of Sore Throat and Neck Symptoms: It promotes qi and blood circulation in the neck, alleviating symptoms of pharyngitis, neck pain, and tonsillitis.
- Improvement of Asthma: It improves upper respiratory function and eases breathing, helping to alleviate asthma and chronic cough symptoms.
When Should You Do Acupressure?
You can apply acupressure immediately when blood pressure is elevated or when the neck feels uncomfortable. In particular, applying pressure for 10 minutes after waking in the morning or before bedtime in the evening helps maintain stable blood pressure throughout the day. It is also good to practice acupressure as a preventive measure during seasons when colds or asthma tend to worsen. It is also effective when experiencing neck tension due to stress.
Precautions
Carotid Artery Caution: Since Renying is located near the carotid artery, never apply strong pressure. Practice acupressure gently with light pressure. Pressing the carotid artery and blocking blood flow can be dangerous. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you are taking blood pressure medication, consult your doctor before applying acupressure. Contraindicated Situations: Avoid acupressure if you have heart disease or severe high blood pressure, or if you have wounds or inflammation on the neck. Avoid Excessive Stimulation: Limit acupressure to 3-4 times per day, and do not exceed 1 minute per session.
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