Introduction
Most people have experienced blurred vision and scattered thoughts while studying or working. Modern people often accumulate brain fatigue and experience sharply declining concentration due to stress, sleep deprivation, and prolonged screen exposure.
In traditional Chinese medicine, this decline in concentration is viewed as “deficiency of Qi (氣)” and “poor cerebral blood circulation.” Fortunately, stimulating acupoints distributed throughout the body can promote blood supply to the brain, relax nervous tension, reduce stress hormones, and naturally restore concentration. An added benefit is that it can be performed anytime with just a finger, without the need for medication.
Detailed Guide to 5 Acupoints
1. Taiyang Acupoint (EX-HN5)
Location: At the midpoint of the line connecting the outer end of the eyebrow and the outer corner of the eye, in the temple area.
Acupressure Method: Apply gentle, circular pressure with both fingers simultaneously. Rather than pressing hard, maintain pressure at a level where slight discomfort and comfort coexist. Perform for 30 seconds to 1 minute per session.
Benefits: Taiyang is a remarkable acupoint that immediately relieves head fatigue. It particularly alleviates temporal lobe fatigue and migraines caused by prolonged concentration and increases oxygen supply to the brain, enhancing focus.
2. Baihui Acupoint (GV20)
Location: At the highest point of the vertex. It is located where a vertical line connecting both ears intersects with a vertical line drawn from the center between the eyebrows.
Acupressure Method: Apply pressure with both fingers or thumbs at a level of mild tenderness. Press for 5 seconds, then rest for 5 seconds, repeating this pattern. Practicing for about 1 minute per session provides a feeling of mental refreshment.
Benefits: Baihui, commonly called “the acupoint that cures a hundred diseases,” stimulates the central nervous system of the brain, clarifying the mind and enhancing memory. People with high blood pressure and dizziness also experience improvement through acupressure.
3. Fengchi Acupoint (GB20)
Location: On both sides of the neck, where the base of the skull meets the upper cervical region. Located in the hollow areas beneath the occipital bone.
Acupressure Method: Apply pressure with both thumbs, positioning them lightly against the back of the neck. Press deeply but within a pain-free range, pressing for 5 seconds and resting for 5 seconds in repetition. Perform for about 1 minute per session.
Benefits: Fengchi is located near the carotid and vertebral arteries supplying the brain, making it very effective for improving cerebral circulation. It relieves neck stiffness and supplies fresh oxygen to the brain, enhancing concentration and memory.
4. Sanyinjiao Acupoint (SP6)
Location: Approximately 4 cm above the inner ankle bone (about 3-4 finger widths), on the inner aspect of the calf.
Acupressure Method: Using the thumb, gradually increase pressure, pressing for 5 seconds and resting for 5 seconds in repetition. Perform for 1 minute on each leg.
Benefits: Sanyinjiao is an acupoint that improves blood circulation throughout the body. It increases blood flow to the brain, relieves nervous tension, and simultaneously alleviates stress-induced digestive issues and anxiety.
5. Neiguan Acupoint (PC6)
Location: At the center of the inner wrist, approximately 5 cm above the wrist crease toward the elbow.
Acupressure Method: Apply pressure with the opposite thumb using a rhythm of pressing for 3 seconds and resting for 1 second, continuing for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Perform on both arms, taking care not to press too firmly.
Benefits: Neiguan is known as an acupoint connecting the heart and brain. It reduces stress hormones (cortisol), stabilizes the nervous system, and effectively alleviates concentration loss caused by anxiety.
5-Minute Self-Acupressure Routine
Perform the following steps in order upon waking in the morning or during the afternoon 2-3 PM energy slump.
- Step 1 (1 minute): Taiyang acupoint: 30 seconds on each side
- Step 2 (1 minute): Baihui acupoint: 1 minute
- Step 3 (1 minute): Fengchi acupoint: 30 seconds on each side
- Step 4 (1.5 minutes): Sanyinjiao acupoint: 45 seconds on each leg
- Step 5 (0.5 minutes): Neiguan acupoint: 15 seconds on each arm
This 5-minute routine improves cerebral blood flow and calms the nervous system. Practicing twice daily—morning and evening—allows you to feel improvement in concentration within 1-2 weeks.
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