5 Acupoints for Memory Decline — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

Introduction

Increasingly forgetting names, memories of yesterday becoming hazy, frequently forgetting important appointments. While these may seem natural and common as we age, if they persist, it warrants attention.

In traditional Eastern medicine, memory decline is viewed as a signal of ‘kidney and brain function decline.’ Fortunately, stimulating specific acupoints can improve blood circulation to the brain, activate the nervous system, and achieve a clearer mental state. Before heading to the pharmacy, try this nature-friendly method you can do with your fingertips.

Five Acupoints Each Explained

1️⃣ Baihui (GV20) — The Master Key to Activating Brain Centers

Location: The precise midpoint between the line connecting both ears (center) and the apex of the head. It’s located at the center of the crown.

Acupressure Method: Using the fingerprint area of your thumb, slowly press in circular motions. The appropriate stimulation should be enough to move the scalp slightly. Hold for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per session.

Benefits: Also called Baihui (頂會), this acupoint directly stimulates cerebral blood flow to clear the mind and restore memory. It also has immediate effects on dizziness, fatigue, and reduced concentration.

2️⃣ Sanyinjiao (SP6) — The ‘Brain Hormone’ Balancer

Location: Four finger-widths (approximately 10 cm) above the inner ankle, in the muscle area behind the shinbone.

Acupressure Method: Repeatedly press and release slowly with your thumb. Apply for 1 minute per leg, and stimulating both sides yields better results. A slight pain sensation is appropriate.

Benefits: Strengthens spleen function to improve memory processing abilities. It normalizes pituitary hormone secretion, making it excellent for nervous system recovery. It also aids brain rest by improving sleep quality.

3️⃣ Shenmen (HT8) — Heart-Mind Stability and Memory Recovery

Location: On the palm side of the fifth finger (pinky finger), at the center between the fingertip and the pinky finger crease.

Acupressure Method: Press in circular motions with the opposite thumb for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Alternate stimulating both hands. A light massage sensation is sufficient.

Benefits: This acupoint regulates both heart function and mental stability simultaneously. It’s especially effective for memory decline caused by anxiety or stress, and rapidly restores concentration and memory recall abilities.

4️⃣ Taichong (LR3) — Overcoming Stress-Related Memory Decline

Location: On the top of the foot between the big toe and second toe, slightly above where the bones meet.

Acupressure Method: Repeatedly press firmly and release with your thumb. Apply 3-5 seconds at a time, stimulating each foot for 1 minute. A slight ache is normal.

Benefits: Improves blood circulation by facilitating liver function. It relieves the nervous system tension caused by excessive stress, quickly resolving stress-related forgetfulness and inattention.

5️⃣ Neiguan (PC6) — Nervous System Stabilization Center

Location: On the inner side of the wrist, two finger-widths (approximately 5 cm) above the center of the wrist. The precise location is in the depression between the two tendons.

Acupressure Method: Press slowly with your thumb, being careful not to touch the bone. Apply for 1 minute per wrist, stimulating both sides. Press deeply but not excessively.

Benefits: Effectively improves memory decline that appears alongside anxiety, palpitations, and chest tightness. It normalizes oversensitive nervous system states to restore the brain’s information processing ability.

5-Minute Self-Acupressure Routine

Preparation: Sit in a comfortable position, breathe deeply, and calm your mind gently.

Order and Time Distribution:

1. Baihui (GV20) — 1 minute (stimulate the center of the crown in circular motions)
2. Neiguan (PC6) — 1 minute (both wrists, 30 seconds each)
3. Taichong (LR3) — 1 minute (both feet, 30 seconds each)
4. Sanyinjiao (SP6) — 1 minute (both legs, 30 seconds each)
5. Shenmen (HT8) — 1 minute (both fingers, 30 seconds each)

Additional Tips: The most effective times are right after waking in the morning and 30 minutes before bedtime. You can experience substantial improvement when you consistently practice for more than a week.