Acupoint Guide

Tag: LU7

  • 5 Acupoints Beneficial for Both Cough and Arm Tingling

    5 Acupoints Beneficial for Both Cough and Arm Tingling

    One-line summary: Cough and arm numbness are signs of weakened lung function and insufficient qi and blood circulation. You can address both symptoms simultaneously through acupressure on 5 acupoints: Dazhui, Shanzhong, Lieque, Fenglong, and Chize.

    Introduction

    Have you ever experienced a persistent cough along with numbness or pain in your arms? This is not just a coincidence. In traditional Chinese medicine, both cough and arm numbness are viewed as symptoms related to weakened lung function. When the lungs weaken, their ability to supply qi diminishes, and this can manifest as numbness in the arms. This article introduces 5 acupoints that can improve both symptoms simultaneously.

    5 Acupoints for Cough and Arm Numbness

    1. Dazhui — GV14

    Location: Below the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra (the indented depression directly below the most prominent bone at the back of the neck when you bend your head forward)

    Benefits: Dazhui is the acupoint that governs all yang qi in the body. It strengthens lung function and boosts immunity. It is most effective for stopping cough and restoring the body’s resistance.

    Acupressure technique: Bend your head forward and locate the area below the 7th cervical vertebra. Press firmly downward with your thumb for 3 seconds and release. Repeat 10 times per session, 3-5 times daily.

    2. Shanzhong — CV17

    Location: On the breastbone, at the midpoint of the line connecting both nipples (4th intercostal space, at the height of the center of the chest)

    Benefits: Shanzhong regulates qi in the chest and strengthens both the lungs and heart. It calms cough, alleviates shortness of breath, and improves whole-body qi circulation, reducing arm numbness as well.

    Acupressure technique: Overlap your middle and ring fingers and place them vertically on the center of your chest. Apply pressure while slowly exhaling, holding for 3 seconds. Repeat 8-10 times per session, 2-3 times daily.

    3. Lieque — LU7

    Location: 1.5 cun (approximately 2cm) above the wrist crease, on the thumb side of the forearm bone (radial styloid process)

    Benefits: Lieque is an important acupoint on the lung meridian with direct effects on relieving cough and asthma. It normalizes lung function and promotes qi and blood circulation in the upper limbs, improving arm numbness.

    Acupressure technique: Extend your arm forward and bend your wrist slightly downward. Using the thumb of your opposite hand, locate the Lieque point and press deeply for 3 seconds. Apply acupressure 10 times on each arm, 2 times daily.

    4. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: 8 cun (approximately 24cm) above the outer ankle bone (lateral malleolus) toward the knee, on the lateral aspect of the shin bone

    Benefits: Fenglong is excellent for removing phlegm and stopping cough. It eliminates damp qi, addressing the root cause of cough, and improves whole-body qi and blood circulation, alleviating arm numbness symptoms as well.

    Acupressure technique: Sit with your leg extended and locate the outer center of the shin. Press firmly downward with your thumb, using a pressure intensity where slight discomfort is felt, and maintain for 3-5 seconds. Repeat 8-10 times on each leg, 1-2 times daily.

    5. Chize — LU5

    Location: At the crease of the elbow, on the outer side of the bicep tendon (at the outer end of the elbow crease line when the arm is bent)

    Benefits: Chize directly treats arm pain and numbness while simultaneously clearing heat from the lungs to stop cough. It normalizes the meridians of the upper limbs, fundamentally improving the qi and blood deficiency that causes arm numbness.

    Acupressure technique: Bend your arm to reveal the elbow crease. Using the thumb of your opposite hand, locate the outer end of the crease line and press vertically for 3 seconds. Repeat 10 times on each arm, 2 times daily.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Morning (within 10 minutes of waking): Apply acupressure to Dazhui → Shanzhong → Lieque in order, 5 times each. This activates lung function for the day ahead.

    Midday (around noon): Apply acupressure to Fenglong on both legs 10 times. This time of day corresponds to peak lung meridian activity, making it most effective.

    Evening (1 hour before bed): Apply acupressure to Chize → Lieque → Shanzhong in order, 8 times each. This prevents nighttime coughing and improves sleep quality.

    When symptoms are severe: Apply acupressure to all 5 acupoints in one session, starting with Dazhui and proceeding through Shanzhong, Lieque, Chize, and Fenglong in order. This takes 5-10 minutes total and can be repeated twice daily (morning and evening).

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or possibly pregnant, please consult with a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine or healthcare professional before practicing acupressure.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult a healthcare professional.
  • 5 Acupoints Beneficial for Cough and Facial Swelling Simultaneously

    5 Acupoints Beneficial for Cough and Facial Swelling Simultaneously

    One-line Summary: Cough and facial swelling stem from respiratory imbalance and fluid metabolism issues, and can be simultaneously improved through 5 acupoints: Dazhui, Shanzhong, Lieque, Fenglong, and Chize.

    Introduction

    Are you struggling with persistent cough and facial swelling at the same time? This is not just a simple cold but a signal that your respiratory system and body fluid circulation are out of balance. In traditional Chinese medicine, there are effective acupoints that can improve these two symptoms together. Discover this self-care method that you can start with just one finger, without medication, right now.

    5 Best Acupoints for Cough and Facial Swelling

    1. Dazhui — GV14

    Location: Located directly below the depression under the 7th cervical vertebra, which is the most prominent bone when you lower your head. It is positioned on the midline between your neck and back.

    Benefits: Dazhui strengthens the yang qi of the entire body and activates respiratory function. It fundamentally alleviates cough symptoms while simultaneously enhancing immunity to reduce inflammation, which is the cause of facial swelling.

    Acupressure Method: Using your thumb or finger knuckle, apply slow, perpendicular pressure to the Dazhui point. Perform 5 repetitions of 30 seconds each, continuing until you feel a warm sensation. Doing this 3 times a day is most effective.

    2. Shanzhong — CV17

    Location: Located on the sternum in the center of the chest, at the midpoint of the line connecting the two nipples (4th intercostal space).

    Benefits: This acupoint regulates qi in the chest and is very important for treating respiratory conditions. It directly alleviates cough, promotes circulation in the upper body along with chest congestion relief, and quickly resolves facial swelling.

    Acupressure Method: Overlap your index and middle fingers and gently massage the Shanzhong point in circular motions. Do not press too hard; slowly repeat 3 sets for about 30 seconds each. Performing this before bed also helps with better sleep.

    3. Lieque — LU7

    Location: Located about 1.5 cun (approximately 2cm) above the wrist crease on the inside of the wrist, directly above the radial styloid process (the bony prominence on the thumb side).

    Benefits: An important acupoint of the Lung meridian, it directly addresses cough and asthma symptoms. It improves blood circulation to facial skin, quickly relieving facial heaviness and congestion caused by swelling.

    Acupressure Method: Using the thumb of the opposite hand, find the Lieque point and apply pressure at a slightly painful intensity for 30 seconds. Alternating between both hands and performing this 3 times daily, especially when coughing is severe, will show quick results.

    4. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: Located approximately 8 cun (about 24cm) below the outer lower point of the knee in the direction of the ankle, about 2 finger-widths (approximately 3cm) away from the outer (lateral) side of the tibia.

    Benefits: A key acupoint for eliminating dampness, it normalizes body fluid metabolism. It resolves fluid stagnation, the root cause of facial swelling, while simultaneously regulating mucus secretion in the respiratory system to effectively reduce cough.

    Acupressure Method: Sit with your legs extended and gently press the Fenglong point with your thumb while making circular motions. Perform this for 1 minute at a time, 2 times daily. Adjust the pressure intensity if there is pain.

    5. Chize — LU5

    Location: Located at the top of the elbow crease when the elbow is bent, on the outer side of the biceps tendon (the thick tendon on the inside of the forearm).

    Benefits: Directly connected to the lungs, this acupoint provides immediate relief from cough. It promotes circulation in the upper body, quickly improving swelling and heat sensations in the facial area.

    Acupressure Method: Using the thumb of the opposite hand, press the Chize point with slightly stronger intensity, repeating 5 times for 30 seconds each. Performing this twice daily in the morning and evening will quickly improve cough symptoms.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Step 1 (1 minute): First, apply acupressure to Dazhui (GV14) at the back of the neck for 30 seconds, then massage Shanzhong (CV17) in the center of the chest for 30 seconds. This activates lung function.

    Step 2 (2 minutes): Apply acupressure to Lieque (LU7) on the wrist, alternating hands for 1 minute, and stimulate Chize (LU5) on the elbow for 30 seconds on each arm. This maximizes respiratory circulation in the upper body.

    Step 3 (2 minutes): Finally, apply slow circular acupressure to Fenglong (ST40) on the legs for 1 minute on each leg. This removes dampness within the body, which is the root cause of facial swelling.

    Tip: Practicing this routine 2 times daily (morning and evening) will help you notice improvement in cough and swelling within 5-7 days. Start with warm hands, and drink warm water after acupressure for doubled benefits.

    🤰 Pregnant Women Warning: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or possibly pregnant, you must consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing these techniques.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult a healthcare professional.
  • 5 Acupoints That Simultaneously Help with Cough and Abdominal Pain

    5 Acupoints That Simultaneously Help with Cough and Abdominal Pain

    One-line summary: When coughing and abdominal pain occur at the same time, focusing on 5 acupoints that connect the lungs and digestive system can relieve both symptoms together.

    Introduction

    When experiencing coughing and abdominal pain at the same time, daily life becomes very inconvenient. With each cough, the abdominal muscles tense up and abdominal pain worsens, which causes sleep quality to decline. Modern medicine treats these symptoms separately, but Eastern medicine views the root causes of coughing and abdominal pain as interconnected. When you stimulate acupoints that improve qi (energy) flow in the lungs and digestive organs, both symptoms can be relieved together.

    5 Beneficial Acupoints for Coughing and Abdominal Pain

    1. Dazhui — GV14

    Location: The depression below the 7th cervical vertebra prominence at the back of the neck. When you lower your head, it is the small depression directly below the most prominent bone.

    Benefits: Strengthens lung function and directly relieves coughing. Boosts immunity and helps prevent colds, and is an important acupoint for tonifying yang qi throughout the entire body.

    Acupressure technique: Lower your head naturally, then gently rub this point in circular motions with your thumb for 30 seconds. Do not press too hard—light warmth is appropriate.

    2. Danzhong — CV17

    Location: On the sternum in the center of the chest, at the exact midpoint of the line connecting both nipples. Located at the 4th intercostal space (between the 4th ribs).

    Benefits: Directly regulates the respiratory system to relieve coughing and chest tightness. Calms the nervous system and prevents symptom aggravation from stress.

    Acupressure technique: Overlap your index and middle fingers and slowly apply pressure in circular motions for 1 minute. Continue until you feel a sense of ease in your chest.

    3. Qihai — CV6

    Location: About 1.5 cun (approximately 2 centimeters) below the navel, located directly on the anterior midline of the abdomen.

    Benefits: A key acupoint that relieves all abdominal pain. Improves digestive function and promotes intestinal movement to relieve abdominal discomfort. An important point for replenishing qi, the vital life energy.

    Acupressure technique: Overlap two fingers and press slowly below the navel for 1 minute. Direct pressure is more effective than circular motions.

    4. Lieque — LU7

    Location: From the wrist crease on the thumb side, about 1.5 cun (approximately 2 centimeters) toward the arm, near the radial styloid process (the pointed bone above the thumb).

    Benefits: Directly activates the lung meridian to quickly relieve respiratory symptoms such as coughing, colds, and sore throat. Also improves numbness in the wrist.

    Acupressure technique: With the opposite thumb, gently apply circular pressure for 30 seconds on both hands. Continue until you feel a slight stiffness sensation with warmth transmission.

    5. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: From the outer side of the ankle toward the knee, about 8 cun (approximately 12 centimeters) up, about 2 cun (approximately twice the thumb width) lateral to the tibia. Near the outer bone of the calf.

    Benefits: Activates digestive function and directly relieves abdominal discomfort and pain. Removes dampness throughout the body, improves abdominal bloating, and promotes metabolism.

    Acupressure technique: Apply pressure with your thumb in slow circular motions for approximately 2 minutes on both legs. It is effective when you feel slight warmth and a slight aching sensation in the calf.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    The most efficient way to relieve both coughing and abdominal pain simultaneously is to apply pressure in sequence. When you wake up in the morning or when symptoms are severe, follow this routine.

    Step 1 (1 minute): First, start with Dazhui (GV14) at the back of the neck. This is the first step in activating lung function.

    Step 2 (1 minute): Apply pressure to Danzhong (CV17) on the chest to deepen your breathing.

    Step 3 (1 minute): Slowly press Qihai (CV6) below the navel to regulate abdominal energy.

    Step 4 (1 minute 30 seconds): Apply pressure to Lieque (LU7) on both wrists to strengthen the lung meridian.

    Step 5 (1 minute 30 seconds): Finally, apply pressure to Fenglong (ST40) on both calves to activate digestive function.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine or healthcare professional before practicing.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational health purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.
  • Lieque (LU7) vs Zhaohai (KI6) — Which acupoint should you press?

    Lieque (LU7) vs Zhaohai (KI6) — Which acupoint should you press?

    One-line summary: Lieque works quickly on upper respiratory symptoms (colds, cough, sore throat), while Zhaohai provides long-term improvements for deep anxiety and sleep problems.

    What’s the Difference Between Lieque (LU7) and Zhaohai (KI6)?

    There are two acupressure points located on the hands and feet that handle completely different areas of the body. These are Lieque (LU7) and Zhaohai (KI6). Many people confuse these two points because they share similar Chinese character names and overlapping symptoms (especially sore throat). However, the two points work through different meridians, and their effects operate at different depths. Lieque is a point on the wrist that governs lung qi and responds quickly to acute respiratory symptoms, while Zhaohai is a point on the ankle that nourishes kidney yin and slowly addresses chronic nervous system issues. In this article, I’ll compare these two points in depth to help you choose the right one for your symptoms.

    Understanding Lieque (LU7) in Depth

    Exact Location

    Lieque is located approximately 1.5 cun (about 4-5 cm) above the inner wrist crease, in the direction of the elbow. More precisely, you can find it in the small depression (indentation) just above the radial styloid process (the bony prominence on the thumb side of the forearm). When you bend your wrist, a thick tendon becomes visible on the thumb side. Following the space between this tendon and the bone upward, you’ll find Lieque. Check if there’s tenderness. If you’ve found the correct point, pressing it will produce a sharp, tingling pain or a cool sensation that radiates through the entire arm.

    Who Should Use It

    Lieque is the terminal point (jing point) of the lung meridian—the place where lung qi is released to the outside. Therefore, it shows immediate effects when you have chills and a slight fever in the early stages of a cold, or when a cough has already started. When you have a persistent dry cough or a swollen throat making it difficult to swallow, few acupressure points are as effective as Lieque in quickly relieving symptoms. It also helps when migraines or tension headaches cause facial flushing. If you frequently catch colds during seasonal transitions or tend to develop sore throats and pharyngitis, it’s good to regularly monitor the condition of Lieque.

    Acupressure Technique and Tips

    When applying pressure to Lieque, it’s most effective to press slowly using the joint area of your thumb rather than the nail. Begin with gentle pressure of about 2-3 kg for 30 seconds to 1 minute. When you have early cold symptoms, apply acupressure 3-4 times daily, about 1 minute each time. For cough or sore throat, maintaining moderate pressure consistently is better than applying strong pressure. After applying acupressure, drink warm water or ginger tea to enhance the effect. Interestingly, stimulating Lieque often causes the skin to turn red, which is a sign of improved blood circulation. Keeping the throat warm with a scarf or towel right after acupressure makes the effect even better.

    Understanding Zhaohai (KI6) in Depth

    Exact Location

    Zhaohai is located approximately 1 cun (about 2.5-3 cm) below the lowest point of the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone), in a small depression. When your foot is relaxed, feel below the medial malleolus with your fingers to find a spot that feels slightly tender or cool. Zhaohai is a bit trickier to locate than Lieque. If your ankle is swollen or you have eczema, identifying the location can be difficult. Once you find it on one foot, you can stimulate the same location symmetrically on the other foot, so it’s recommended to stimulate both sides.

    Who Should Use It

    Zhaohai is a key point of the kidney meridian that nourishes kidney yin and stabilizes the nervous system. Therefore, it’s excellent for insomnia where you toss and turn unable to sleep, or frequently wake in the early morning hours—especially sleep disorders caused by anxiety. If you become extremely anxious before your menstrual cycle or suffer from severe menstrual cramps due to abdominal tension, regularly stimulating Zhaohai improves hormonal balance. People struggling with constipation can also experience significant effects from Zhaohai, especially for stress-related constipation or irritable bowel syndrome. Like Lieque, Zhaohai also addresses sore throat, but while Lieque handles acute sore throat, Zhaohai addresses the chronic symptom of a dry and sore throat. It also improves the heat sensation (flushing) and night sweats that menopausal women experience.

    Acupressure Technique and Tips

    To stimulate Zhaohai, it’s effective to lie down, bend one leg, place your other foot on top of your knee, and slowly press with your thumb or a rounded acupressure tool. Initially, apply gentle pressure (about 2 kg) for 10-15 seconds, repeated several times. Once you adapt, maintain moderate pressure for 30 seconds to 1 minute. If you have insomnia, stimulate Zhaohai 30 minutes before bedtime, and your nerves will calm down for natural sleep. After stimulating Zhaohai, drinking warm milk or warm jujube tea enhances the sleep-inducing effect. An important point is that Zhaohai takes longer to show results than Lieque. You need to apply acupressure consistently for at least a week or more to feel the effects, so approach it with patience. Starting 7-10 days before your expected menstrual period and stimulating Zhaohai daily provides the best effect for menstrual pain relief.

    Key Comparison Summary

    Item Lieque (LU7) Zhaohai (KI6)
    Primary Effects Colds, cough, sore throat, headache (acute) Insomnia, anxiety, menstrual cramps, constipation (chronic)
    Location 1.5 cun above wrist crease, above radial styloid process 1 cun below inner ankle bone
    Meridian Lung meridian (Tai Yin of Hand) Kidney meridian (Shao Yin of Foot)
    Difficulty Finding Location Easy Moderate
    Speed of Effect Fast (same day to 2 days) Slow (1 week or more)
    Pressure Intensity Moderate to strong Gentle to moderate
    Common Symptom Sore throat (however, Lieque handles acute cases, Zhaohai handles chronic cases)
    Season Primarily autumn and winter Year-round needed

    They Create Synergy When Stimulated Together

    Interestingly, stimulating Lieque and Zhaohai together creates greater synergy than stimulating either one alone. For example, you might have a cold while simultaneously experiencing anxiety and sleep deprivation. In such situations, quickly calming the lung’s cough symptoms with Lieque and stabilizing the nervous system with Zhaohai significantly speeds up overall body recovery. Additionally, when your immunity drops due to seasonal changes, regularly stimulating Zhaohai beforehand to replenish kidney qi means that if you do catch a cold, stimulating Lieque alone will bring faster recovery. In actual clinical practice, patients with both insomnia and chronic cough are often recommended to use both points. By stimulating Zhaohai 30 minutes before bed and Lieque during the day when coughing is severe, you can dramatically improve your overall physical condition with minimal effort.

    Conclusion: Situation-Based Selection Guide

    For early cold symptoms or severe cough → Lieque
    Choose Lieque if you want results today or tomorrow. Especially in the early stages of throat cold, few acupressure points are as effective as Lieque. Acupressure 3-4 times daily is sufficient.

    For chronic insomnia and deep anxiety → Zhaohai
    If you want long-term improvement, consistently stimulate Zhaohai. You’ll need to apply acupressure regularly for at least 2 weeks, ideally about a month, to truly feel the effects.

    For anxiety and pain occurring before your menstrual cycle → Zhaohai first
    Starting 7-10 days before your expected period, stimulate Zhaohai daily. If menstrual cramps begin, you can additionally stimulate Lieque as needed.

    For chronically dry and sore throat → Zhaohai
    Since this is a chronic symptom, nourishing kidney yin with Zhaohai is the fundamental solution.

    For simultaneous cold and anxiety → Stimulate both
    Use Lieque for lung symptoms and Zhaohai to stabilize the nervous system for faster recovery.

    Ultimately, Lieque and Zhaohai are like an emergency room and psychiatry department. Lieque responds quickly to urgent symptoms, while Zhaohai slowly heals deep nervous system problems. Choose the right acupressure point for your situation, and use both together when necessary to restore complete health.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupressure points such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, consult with a Korean medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before applying acupressure.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for health information purposes and does not substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult with a healthcare professional.
  • 5 Acupoints for Facial Pain — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    5 Acupoints for Facial Pain — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-line summary: Stimulating five major acupressure points on the face can relieve facial pain, headaches, and temporomandibular joint pain in 3-5 minutes.

    Introduction

    Are you struggling with toothaches, migraines, or temporomandibular joint pain? Facial pain can be a major inconvenience in daily life, and visiting a hospital is often difficult. Fortunately, by knowing five acupressure points passed down through traditional medicine, you can relieve pain anytime, anywhere with just a finger. This article introduces scientifically-backed acupoints and precise pressure techniques.

    Five Effective Acupoints for Facial Pain

    1. Hegu (Union Valley) — LI4

    Location: In the depression between the thumb and index finger. Located at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone, it is the highest area when the hand is extended.

    Effects: This is the representative acupoint for managing pain throughout the face. It particularly relieves toothaches, migraines, and facial swelling rapidly, and also releases jaw tension caused by stress. It is also effective for strengthening immunity and improving digestion.

    Technique: Locate LI4 with the opposite thumb and press slowly and deeply. You may feel some mild pain initially, which is normal. Press for 10 seconds and rest for 3 seconds, repeating this pattern for 1-2 minutes per session. Practicing 2-3 times daily is effective.

    2. Lieque (Broken Sequence) — LU7

    Location: Above the wrist crease, approximately 1.5 cun (about 2 cm) above the radial styloid process on the thumb side. It is a depression when the wrist is slightly flexed.

    Effects: This acupoint opens the pathway for qi and blood flowing to the face and head. It is highly effective not only for facial pain, but also for migraines, colds, nasal congestion, and sore throat. It also helps improve skin radiance and strengthen immunity.

    Technique: Locate LU7 precisely with the opposite thumb, then press vertically with moderate depth. Press for 10-15 seconds and rest, repeating 3-5 times. Practicing acupressure twice daily (morning and evening) also provides good preventive effects.

    3. Yingxiang (Welcome Fragrance) — LI20

    Location: On the outer side of the nose, in the middle of the nasolabial fold between the nostril and lip. A slight depression can be felt when pressed with a finger.

    Effects: This acupoint directly relieves nasal and anterior facial pain. It rapidly improves sinusitis, rhinitis, toothaches, and facial swelling, and brightens skin complexion. It relieves facial tension and softens your facial expression.

    Technique: Locate LI20 simultaneously with both index fingers and press slightly upward. Press for 10 seconds and repeat 10 times; about 1 minute of acupressure per session is sufficient. It is particularly effective when you have nasal congestion.

    4. Zanzhu (Bamboo Gathering) — BL2

    Location: An acupoint located at the inner end of the eyebrow (near the nose). It can be found in the depression of the supraorbital ridge.

    Effects: It relieves pain around the eyes, forehead, and throughout the entire face. It has immediate effects on migraines, eye fatigue, and supraorbital pain. It is also excellent for improving wrinkles around the eyes and promoting fatigue recovery.

    Technique: Locate BL2 with both thumbs and slowly press and release, pressing slightly inward and upward. Press for 20-30 seconds per session, and practice acupressure 3-4 times daily to quickly relieve eye fatigue and headaches. Be sure to practice this when you feel tired in the evening.

    5. Chengqi (Receiving Tears) — ST1

    Location: Directly below the pupil, at the center of the infraorbital ridge. A slight space can be felt when pressed with a finger.

    Effects: This acupoint manages pain throughout the midface from below the eye to the mouth. It relieves toothaches, facial neuralgia, facial twitching, and perioral swelling. It also helps improve dark circles under the eyes and enhance facial complexion.

    Technique: Gently locate ST1 with both index fingers, then press for 10 seconds with slight downward pressure. Repeat this 5 times, and practice acupressure 2-3 times daily. Avoid pressing too hard as this may irritate the eyes; use gentle pressure.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Morning (Before Work): Press LI4 → LU7 → LI20 in order, 1 minute each (3 minutes total). This energizes your day and relieves facial tension.

    Evening (After Work): Press BL2 → ST1, 1 minute each, then add 1 more minute of LI4 acupressure (3 minutes total). This relieves accumulated fatigue and facial pain.

    When Pain Occurs: Intensively press LI4 (2 minutes) → the relevant acupoint (1 minute). For example, press BL2 additionally for migraines, or LI20 for toothaches.

    With consistent daily acupressure, prevention effects are excellent, and chronic facial pain noticeably improves within 2-3 weeks.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as SP6, LI4, and LR3 can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.
  • Neck Pain Self-Acupressure Introduction — Start with These 3 Points If You’re New

    Neck Pain Self-Acupressure Introduction — Start with These 3 Points If You’re New

    One-line summary: Three fingers, three acupoints, three minutes a day. That’s all there is to it. From today, try relieving your stiff neck with your own hands.

    Acupressure is not difficult

    When your neck feels stiff, don’t you find yourself repeating a cycle of going to the hospital, booking a massage, or just putting up with it? Honestly, I used to do the same. But acupressure is different. No special technique is needed. Just pressing with your fingers and keeping your breathing steady is enough. Most importantly, the appeal is that you can do it anytime, anywhere. Right now, as you read this article, you can absolutely do this too.

    What you should know before starting

    The first principle of acupressure is “it should not hurt.” The correct pressure is the amount that makes your body feel “oh, there’s pressure here.” Another important thing is not to hold your breath. Slowly inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth while pressing. It’s good to wash your hands clean and rest your body in a comfortable position. That’s it. You’re ready now.

    Just remember these 3 spots

    First: Fengchi (GB20)

    How to find it: Look in a mirror or touch the back of your neck with your fingers. At the point where your neck meets your shoulders, there is a small indentation below the occipital bone (the base of the skull). If you trace your fingers up both sides of your neck (where the muscles are thick, along the trapezius), you can find a small indentation about one finger width. That is Fengchi.

    How to press it: Press slowly with your thumb as if pushing upward. Or more precisely, fix your finger and push the neck muscles toward your finger. The pressure should feel refreshing and soothing. Press for 5 seconds, release, and repeat for 1 minute.

    Try pressing this when: When you’ve been sitting in front of a computer for a long time, when your neck feels stiff and it’s hard to turn to the side, or when you have a headache—pressing this point works wonders for relief.

    Second: Dazhui (GV14)

    How to find it: Slowly lower your head. You’ll see or feel the most prominent bone below your neck. That’s the 7th cervical vertebra, or C7. Dazhui is located in the depression directly below that bone, at the point where your back and neck meet. Trace down the spine with your finger, pass the prominent protruding point, and the small hollow space directly below it is the correct location.

    How to press it: Since this is a fixed acupoint, press it firmly in a vertical direction. Press downward for about 5-7 seconds, then slowly release. Don’t press too hard—just feel as if warmth is moving downward. Repeat about 10 times over 1 minute.

    Try pressing this when: This acupoint helps when your entire neck and back feel stiff, when your shoulders are tight, or when you have early cold symptoms.

    Third: Lieque (LU7)

    How to find it: Look at the thumb side of your wrist. When you slightly bend your wrist, a crease forms. The point is about 1.5 cm above this crease. When you extend your thumb and bend your wrist inward, the radius (arm bone) rises up. Lieque is in the small hollow above that bone.

    How to press it: Press precisely with the thumb of your other hand. Rather than pressing straight down, push slightly diagonally toward the wrist. A slight tingling sensation—that “oh, this is the spot” feeling—is normal. Press for 5 seconds and release, repeating for 1 minute.

    Try pressing this when: This helps with neck pain, arm numbness, stress, and emotional turbulence—pressing it has a calming effect.

    Beginner 3-Minute Routine

    Follow this order, one minute each, every day! It’s best to do this right after waking up in the morning or before bed in the evening. (1) First, press Fengchi for 1 minute—feel the back of your neck release. (2) Next, press Dazhui for 1 minute—feel the warmth spreading through the connection between your back and neck. (3) Finally, press Lieque on both wrists for 1 minute each—you’ll experience a sense of overall relaxation. I hope these 3 minutes become your own ritual for starting or ending your day.

    3 common mistakes

    1. Pressing too hard until it hurts: Forget the idea that “the harder, the better.” Actually, pain causes muscles to tighten and reduces the effectiveness of acupressure. Think of the pressure as gently tapping a friend’s forearm. That’s the right amount.

    2. Pressing for too long at once: Pressing a single acupoint for more than 5 minutes actually causes fatigue. 1 minute is enough. Repeating several times is much more effective.

    3. Holding your breath while pressing: Many people unconsciously hold their breath while doing acupressure. This actually causes your body to tense up and pain to worsen. Breathe slowly, inhaling and exhaling repeatedly. Pressing rhythmically is also a good approach.

    Moving to the next level

    Once you’re comfortable working with these 3 points, would you like to take a step further? Additional acupoints related to neck pain include ‘Jianjing (Shoulder Well, GB21)’—about 1 cm inward from the highest point of both shoulders toward the neck—and ‘Tianzhu (Heavenly Pillar, BL10)’strong>’—beside Dazhui, near the base of the skull—these points are available. Learning these two points will help you release overall neck tension even more effectively.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or medical professional before proceeding.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a medical professional.
  • Cough + Wrist Pain: 5 Acupressure Points That Help Both

    Cough + Wrist Pain: 5 Acupressure Points That Help Both

    One-Line Summary: Learn about 5 essential acupoints that can simultaneously address respiratory symptoms like cough and upper extremity pain like wrist pain, along with their precise locations and acupressure techniques.

    Introduction

    Have you ever experienced persistent cough along with wrist pain at the same time? This is more common than you might think. Repetitive coughing motions from persistent cough can accumulate fatigue in the wrist muscles, or whole-body stiffness from stress can create both symptoms simultaneously. In traditional medicine, there are acupoints that can help improve both symptoms together.

    5 Beneficial Acupoints for Cough and Wrist Pain

    1. Dazhui — GV14

    Location: It is in the depression below the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra. When you bow your head forward, you can see the most prominent bone at the back of your neck, and the hollow area below it is precisely the Dazhui point.

    Benefits: It excels at strengthening lung function and alleviating cough. It enhances immunity and relieves whole-body fatigue, allowing simultaneous improvement of wrist pain. It is the first acupoint to stimulate when respiratory symptoms are present.

    Acupressure Technique: Sit in a comfortable position and repeatedly press slowly with the thumb of the opposite hand for 3-5 seconds. It is beneficial to apply acupressure 3-5 times daily for about 1 minute each time. You don’t need to press too hard; aim for a sensation of pressure going deep into the point.

    2. Shanzhong — CV17

    Location: It is located on the sternum, at the midpoint of the line connecting both nipples. Anatomically, this corresponds to the 4th intercostal space. You can locate the exact point using two fingers.

    Benefits: It improves overall respiratory function and fundamentally alleviates cough. It relieves chest tightness and alleviates mental and physical stress, also reducing muscle tension in the wrist.

    Acupressure Technique: Place one finger on the center of your chest and press gently. It is more effective to press gently for 2-3 seconds rather than pressing deeply. Repeat 2-3 times daily, about 10-20 times per session.

    3. Lieque — LU7

    Location: It is on the thumb side of the wrist, approximately 1.5 cun (about 4.5 cm) above the wrist crease. It is located above the radial styloid process (the prominent bone on the thumb side), and you can apply acupressure to both wrists alternately.

    Benefits: It regulates the function of the lungs and large intestine to calm cough. Simultaneously, it promotes blood circulation in the wrist and forearm and alleviates nerve pain, addressing the root cause of wrist pain.

    Acupressure Technique: Locate Lieque with the thumb of the opposite hand and press slowly for 3-5 seconds. Press consistently within a range without pain. For optimal results, apply acupressure twice daily—once in the morning and once in the evening, for about 1 minute each.

    4. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: It is located below the outer side of the knee, approximately 8 cun (about 24 cm) from the fibular head (the prominent bone on the outer side of the knee) toward the ankle. It is located approximately 2 finger-widths lateral to the tibia (shin bone).

    Benefits: It removes phlegm from the lungs and stops cough. It promotes metabolism and improves qi and blood circulation throughout the body, thereby also alleviating wrist pain. It is particularly effective for cough caused by phlegm-dampness.

    Acupressure Technique: Sit comfortably and apply acupressure with the thumb in a circular motion for 3-5 seconds. You can use either circular pressing around a central point or vertical pressing—both methods are effective. It is appropriate to apply acupressure 1-2 times daily for about 1 minute per session.

    5. Waiguan — TE5

    Location: It is located on the back of the hand, approximately 2 cun (about 6 cm) above the wrist crease. It is located at the midpoint between the radius (the forearm bone on the thumb side) and the ulna (the forearm bone on the little finger side), and you can apply acupressure to both hands alternately.

    Benefits: It directly alleviates wrist pain and arm fatigue. It removes heat sensation from the upper body and improves circulation, also relieving chest tightness caused by cough. It is particularly effective for people who frequently use their wrists.

    Acupressure Technique: Locate Waiguan with the thumb of the opposite hand and press with consistent pressure for 3-5 seconds. You should feel a soreness sensation (acupoint sensation) rather than pain for the technique to be effective. Apply acupressure 2-3 times daily for about 1 minute per session.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Immediately After Waking in the Morning (1 minute): Apply acupressure to Dazhui for 1 minute to activate lung function. Starting this way will keep your breathing comfortable throughout the day.

    During Lunch Time (2 minutes): Apply acupressure to Shanzhong for 1 minute and Lieque for 1 minute. This releases fatigue accumulated from morning activities and relieves wrist tension.

    After Work in the Evening (2 minutes): Apply acupressure to Fenglong for 1 minute and Waiguan for 1 minute. This simultaneously cares for your legs and arms, which are tired from daily activities.

    By practicing this routine daily, you can notice improvement in cough and wrist pain within 3-7 days. Consistent acupressure is the key to rapid recovery.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing acupressure.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes and does not substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.
  • 5 Acupoints That Help Relieve Cough and Eye Pain Simultaneously

    5 Acupoints That Help Relieve Cough and Eye Pain Simultaneously

    One-line summary: When cough and eye pain occur simultaneously, it is effective to press in order the acupoints Dachu, Quanzhong, Lieque, Fenglong, and Chize, which strengthen lung function and promote qi and blood circulation.

    Introduction

    Have you ever experienced a persistent cough while simultaneously feeling soreness and pain around your eyes? This is not mere coincidence. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, reduced lung function is understood to lead not only to respiratory symptoms but also to poor qi and blood circulation around the eyes. In this article, we introduce five verified acupoints that can address both cough and eye pain simultaneously.

    Five Acupoints for Cough and Eye Pain

    1. Dachu — GV14

    Location: Located in the depression directly below the most prominent bone when bending the neck forward (the 7th cervical vertebra). You can find it by taking the midline of the spine as reference at the boundary line between the neck and shoulders.

    Effects: Dachu is an acupoint that strengthens overall immune function, enhancing lung function and improving respiratory symptoms. Simultaneously, it promotes blood circulation from the crown to the face, alleviating eye fatigue and pain.

    Acupressure technique: Using the tip of your thumb, press Dachu perpendicularly with strong pressure for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat this 5 times, breathing slowly to ensure the muscles at the back of the neck do not become tense.

    2. Quanzhong — CV17

    Location: Located at the midpoint when connecting both nipples with an imaginary line. It is the 4th intercostal space above the sternum (the bone in the center of the chest). You can find it by slowly pressing the center of the chest with the index and middle fingers to locate the depression.

    Effects: Quanzhong is a key acupoint that directly regulates the qi of the lungs. It alleviates cough, deepens breathing, and relieves chest tightness. It also promotes smooth qi and blood circulation, improving blood supply around the eyes.

    Acupressure technique: Using your fingers or finger joints, gently massage Quanzhong in circular motions. Perform about 10-15 clockwise rotations at a time, proceeding within a range that causes no pain.

    3. Lieque — LU7

    Location: Located approximately 1.5 cun (thumb width) above the inner wrist crease, on the radial styloid process (the prominent bone on the thumb side of the wrist). It is the depression directly above the radial artery when the wrist is slightly bent.

    Effects: Lieque is an important acupoint of the Lung meridian, and is excellent for directly treating cough. It relieves sore throat, headache, and tension around the eyes, while strengthening immunity to prevent respiratory infections.

    Acupressure technique: Using the opposite thumb, locate Lieque and press firmly for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat this 5-7 times on each wrist. Massaging the wrist with warm water after acupressure is even more effective.

    4. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: Located on the lateral side below the knee. Starting from above the outer knee and descending along the tibia (shinbone) approximately 8 cun (width of five fingers), positioned about 2 cun (width of two fingers) to the lateral side of the tibia. You can find it in the depression between the muscle and bone on the outer calf.

    Effects: Fenglong is an acupoint that eliminates phlegm and promotes qi and blood circulation. It removes sputum caused by cough and improves eye fatigue by promoting overall qi circulation throughout the body. It also strengthens digestive function to support overall recovery of physical strength.

    Acupressure technique: With the knee slightly bent, locate Fenglong with your thumb and press vertically with strong pressure for 5 seconds. You may feel some pain, but proceed within the range of acceptable discomfort, taking care not to press too deeply. Repeat 5-7 times on each leg.

    5. Chize — LU5

    Location: Located above the elbow crease formed when bending the elbow, on the lateral side of the biceps tendon (the prominent tendon on the inner arm). It is positioned approximately one thumb width toward the thumb from the inner elbow crease when the arm is bent.

    Effects: Chize is very effective at clearing Lung heat and stopping cough. It reduces throat swelling, eases breathing, and clears heat around the eyes to alleviate eye pain and bloodshot eyes.

    Acupressure technique: Using the thumb of the opposite hand, locate Chize and press firmly for 3 seconds, then release. Repeat 5-7 times on each arm. Gently massaging the entire arm with warm water after acupressure speeds up absorption.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Step-by-step acupressure order:

    1. Dachu (GV14) → Relieves tension in the neck and shoulders while boosting overall immune function. (1 minute)

    2. Quanzhong (CV17) → Directly regulates Lung qi to alleviate cough. (1 minute)

    3. Chize (LU5) → Clears Lung heat to ease breathing and reduce eye redness. (1 minute)

    4. Lieque (LU7) → Strengthens immunity and relieves tension around the throat and eyes. (1 minute)

    5. Fenglong (ST40) → Removes phlegm and promotes overall qi circulation. (1 minute)

    Recommendations: This routine is best performed 1-2 times daily, especially when cough is severe or before bedtime in the evening. Drinking warm water after acupressure and resting for 30 minutes maximizes effectiveness.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before proceeding.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult a healthcare professional.