Touwei (ST8) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

What is Touwei?

Touwei (ST8) is an acupoint belonging to the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian, an important point that promotes blood circulation in the face and head area and stabilizes the nervous system. It is a popular acupoint among modern people as it can effectively relieve stress-related headaches, eye strain, and dizziness that many people experience.

How to Find the Exact Location

Step 1: Face forward and locate the end of your eyebrow (toward the temple).
Step 2: From the temple, find the edge of the forehead approximately 0.5 cun (about 1.5cm) above the eyebrow.
Step 3: When you press with your finger, Touwei is the location where you can feel a slight indentation.
Tip: It exists on both sides symmetrically.

Acupressure Method

Preparation: Start in a comfortable sitting or lying position.
Step 1: Gently place your thumb or index finger on the Touwei acupoint.
Step 2: Press firmly and slowly make circles clockwise and counterclockwise, 10 times each.
Step 3: Press with medium pressure for 3 seconds, then release for 3 seconds. Repeat this 5 times.
Step 4: Stimulate both acupoints on both sides in the same manner.
Recommended Time: About 1-2 minutes per session is appropriate.

Key Benefits

• Headache Relief: Quickly relieves tension headaches and stress-related headaches.
• Eye Fatigue Improvement: Effectively reduces eye fatigue from prolonged computer work or smartphone use.
• Dizziness Relief: Alleviates dizziness and vertigo through improved blood circulation.
• Mental Clarity Enhancement: Helps clear your mind and improve concentration.
• Temple Pain Relief: Quickly resolves pain around the forehead and temple area.

When Should You Apply Acupressure?

Optimal Times: Apply acupressure in the morning when you wake up to awaken your mind, in the afternoon at 2-3 PM when fatigue sets in, and in the evening after work to relieve stress.
Recommended Situations: Early acupressure when a headache begins, when you feel eye fatigue after prolonged work, when you feel dizzy, when stress-related tension won’t release, and before sleep to relax your body and mind.

Precautions

General Precautions: Maintain appropriate pressure as pressing too hard can cause skin damage. Use the fleshy part of your finger for acupressure, not your fingernails.
Situations to Avoid: Avoid if you have cuts or inflammation on the skin. If you have serious conditions or are taking medications, consult a doctor. Pregnant women should avoid excessive stimulation.
Expected Results: Results vary by individual, so consistent management is important. If acute symptoms do not improve, seek professional medical attention.