Acupoint Guide

Tag: natural healing

  • Asthma and Excessive Tearing Acupoints: Complete Guide to 5 Acupoints for Strengthening Lung Function







    5 Acupoints to Simultaneously Relieve Asthma and Excessive Tearing: A Home Acupressure Guide

    One-Sentence Summary: Stimulating 5 acupoints that strengthen lung function for just 5 minutes daily can simultaneously improve breathing difficulty and excessive tear production.

    Why Asthma and Excessive Tearing Occur Together

    In traditional Chinese medicine, both asthma and excessive tearing are symptoms caused by weakened lung function. When lung qi (肺氣) is deficient, breathing becomes shallow, causing asthma, and at the same time, the eye’s lubrication function deteriorates, leading to excessive tear secretion. Since these two symptoms share the same root cause, stimulating acupoints that strengthen the lungs can improve both conditions together.

    What Are the Most Effective Acupoints?

    Immediate Effect (for acute breathing difficulty): LU5 (Chize), ST12 (Quepen)
    Fundamental Improvement (long-term treatment): GV14 (Dazhui), GV9 (Zhiyang)
    Emotional Stabilization: CV17 (Shanzhong)

    When breathing feels tight, first stimulate LU5 and ST12 for immediate relief. Consistently stimulating GV14 and GV9 for 3 weeks or longer can bring about fundamental lung function improvement.

    5 Best Acupoints for Asthma and Excessive Tearing

    Acupoint Location Key Effect Stimulation Intensity
    LU5 (Chize) Outer side of elbow crease Immediate relief of breathing difficulty Moderate to Strong
    ST12 (Quepen) Hollow area above clavicle Improves respiratory circulation Moderate
    GV14 (Dazhui) Between vertebrae below neck Strengthens immunity and lung function Light to Moderate
    GV9 (Zhiyang) Vertebrae below chest Fundamental improvement of chronic asthma Light
    CV17 (Shanzhong) Center of chest on nipple line Emotional stabilization and eye dryness relief Light

    1. LU5 (Chize) — Fastest Breath Relief

    How to Find the Location: When you bend your arm at 90 degrees, it’s at the outer end of the elbow crease (thumb side). When you press with your finger, you’ll feel a hollow space between the bone and tendon.

    Effect: As a key acupoint on the lung meridian, it relieves breathing difficulty within 5-10 minutes. If you’re experiencing an asthma attack or shortness of breath, this is the first acupoint to stimulate.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Bend your arm naturally.
    2. Use the opposite thumb to locate LU5.
    3. Apply pressure slowly for the first 3 seconds.
    4. Press firmly for 10 seconds, then release over 3 seconds.
    5. Repeat 10 times on one side, then do the same on the other side.

    Stimulation Frequency: Once in the morning and once in the evening; additional stimulation is possible when breathing difficulty occurs.

    2. ST12 (Quepen) — Improves Overall Respiratory Circulation

    How to Find the Location: Face forward and locate the hollow area above the clavicle (collarbone). It’s approximately 2-3 cm lateral to the center of the neck.

    Effect: Regulates lung and throat function while improving blood circulation throughout the respiratory system. It not only relieves breathing difficulty but also helps normalize tear production.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Tilt your head slightly backward.
    2. Use index and middle fingers of both hands to locate ST12 simultaneously.
    3. Press for 10 seconds while taking a deep breath in.
    4. Release pressure over 3 seconds while exhaling slowly.
    5. Repeat 8-10 times.

    Stimulation Frequency: 2-3 times daily, especially effective when breathing feels tight.

    3. GV14 (Dazhui) — Strengthens Lung Function and Immunity

    How to Find the Location: When you tilt your head slightly forward, the most prominent bone (the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra) appears. The acupoint is in the depression directly below it. When pressed, you’ll feel a clear hollow.

    Effect: In traditional Chinese medicine, this acupoint “governs all yang qi in the body” and strengthens immunity while fundamentally enhancing respiratory function. Consistent stimulation for 3 weeks or longer can reduce the frequency of asthma recurrence.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Sit in a comfortable position.
    2. Use one thumb to locate GV14.
    3. Apply pressure gradually over 5 seconds.
    4. Hold for 10 seconds.
    5. Release pressure slowly over 5 seconds.
    6. Repeat 10 times.

    Stimulation Frequency: 1-2 times daily, most effective in the evening.

    4. GV9 (Zhiyang) — Key to Chronic Asthma Improvement

    How to Find the Location: Lean your upper body forward so the vertebrae protrude. It’s in the depression below the 7th thoracic vertebra (7th thoracic spinous process). If it’s difficult to find alone, reach your hand behind your back and move downward to locate it.

    Effect: A key acupoint for strengthening lung qi and improving respiration. It addresses the root cause of chronic asthma—weakened lung function—while stabilizing the nervous system to regulate tear production.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Sit in a comfortable position.
    2. Get help from a family member or partner to locate GV9 (difficult to do alone).
    3. Press slowly using your thumb or massage stick.
    4. Hold for 10 seconds, then rest for 5 seconds.
    5. Repeat 10-15 times.
    6. When doing alone: Place a tennis ball against your back and use your body weight to stimulate the point—this is convenient.

    Stimulation Frequency: Once daily in the evening. The effect is good even with gentle stimulation.

    5. CV17 (Shanzhong) — Emotional Stabilization and Breath Calming

    How to Find the Location: It’s at the exact center of the chest, on the line connecting both nipples. When pressed, you’ll feel slight elasticity (just above the bone).

    Effect: An important acupoint that regulates heart and lung function, calming respiration and promoting emotional stability. It prevents asthma exacerbation caused by stress and relieves eye dryness.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Lie down and gently locate CV17 with your fingertip.
    2. Massage in circular motions without applying strong pressure.
    3. Press for 10 seconds while taking deep breaths.
    4. Rest for 5 seconds.
    5. Repeat 8-10 times.

    Stimulation Frequency: Once daily, most effective in the evening or before bedtime.

    5-Minute Daily Self-Care Routine — Implementation Plan

    To simultaneously improve asthma and excessive tearing, follow this routine for 5 minutes each in the morning and evening.

    Step 1. Emotional Calming (1 minute) — CV17 (Shanzhong)

    While lying down, gently stimulate CV17. This prevents asthma attacks caused by stress in advance and calms your breathing.

    Step 2. Respiratory Improvement (2 minutes) — LU5 (Chize) + ST12 (Quepen)

    While sitting, stimulate LU5 first with 10 repetitions on each arm. Once breathing eases, stimulate ST12 8-10 times. Stimulating these two acupoints together creates an immediate sense of easier breathing.

    Step 3. Lung Function Strengthening (2 minutes) — GV14 (Dazhui) + GV9 (Zhiyang)

    Sit with your back straight and stimulate GV14 10 times. Then, with a partner’s help, stimulate GV9 10-15 times. This phase is responsible for long-term lung function improvement.

    Time Required: 5 minutes morning + 5 minutes evening = 10 minutes total daily

    Additional Tips to Enhance Results

    Correct Stimulation Intensity: The ideal sensation is “painful but in a good way.” Too light won’t be effective, and too strong causes muscle tension.

    Duration: You need to practice consistently for at least 3 weeks to experience noticeable improvement. Since asthma is a chronic condition, it’s good to continue 3-4 times weekly after symptoms improve, as a preventive measure.

    Times to Avoid: Avoid stimulation within 30 minutes after eating or immediately after exhaustion. When blood is concentrated in the stomach or the body is fatigued, effectiveness decreases.

    Precautions: If you’re experiencing a severe asthma attack or have a high fever, acupressure alone is insufficient. Please seek medical professional consultation first. Acupressure is a supplementary treatment method.

    Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions

    Q. What if acupressure doesn’t work?

    Check the following:

    • Verify that you’ve located the acupoints correctly. Even slight deviations from the precise location significantly reduce effectiveness.
    • Make sure your stimulation intensity isn’t too weak. Press to the point where it’s “painful but feels good.”
    • Don’t expect fundamental improvement in less than 3 weeks. Judge results after 3-4 weeks of consistent practice.
    • Effects are faster when combined with medication therapy (asthma inhalers, etc.).

    Q. Is acupressure alone sufficient during an acute asthma attack?

    Acupressure helps relieve symptoms but cannot replace emergency treatment. If you experience severe breathing difficulty or chest pain, call emergency services (119) immediately. Stimulating LU5 and ST12 should only be used as a supplementary method to calm your breathing while en route to the hospital.

    Q. Can pregnant women do this?

    CV17 (Shanzhong), GV14 (Dazhui), and LU5 (Chize) are safe, but for abdominal and lower back acupoints (ST12 and GV9), please consult a specialist first. Stimulation should be gentle during pregnancy.

    Q. Which is better: acupressure tool vs. finger stimulation?

    Fingers are best because you can feel the subtle responses of the acupoint. Massage sticks or acupressure tools can be used as supplementary implements, and a tennis ball is useful for stimulating back acupoints like GV9.

    Q. How long do I need to continue?

    Timeline for improvement:

    • 1-2 weeks: Breathing feels slightly easier
    • 3-4 weeks: Frequency of asthma attacks decreases
    • 8 weeks or longer: Noticeable fundamental improvement

    We recommend continuing 3-4 times weekly after improvement as a preventive measure.

    Can Other Respiratory Symptoms Be Resolved with Traditional Chinese Medicine?

    Beyond asthma, most respiratory symptoms such as chronic cough, wheezing, and breathing difficulty are related to weakened lung function. The 5 acupoints in this post are fundamentally effective for all respiratory symptoms. For more detailed information, see Respiratory Symptom-Specific Acupoint Guide.

    Regarding eye health, in addition to excessive tearing, if you experience eye fatigue, dry eyes, or eye redness, please check 5 Acupoints for Eye Health. CV17 (Shanzhong) is a foundational acupoint for all these eye symptoms.

    Traditional Chinese medicine aims not to resolve a single symptom but to balance the entire body. Consistently stimulating these 5 acupoints improves not only breathing and eye health but also overall immunity.

    Conclusion: 3-Week Practice Plan

    Asthma and excessive tearing are not separate problems but different manifestations of weakened lung function. By stimulating 5 acupoints for just 5 minutes each in the morning and evening, you can experience noticeable improvement after 3 weeks.

    This Week’s Goal: Accurately locate the 5 acupoints and learn the correct stimulation method.

    Week 2 Goal: Follow the daily routine and observe your body’s responses.

    Week 3 Goal: Confirm improvements in breathing and reduced tearing. At this point, if you desire further improvement, seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for personalized treatment is also a good option.

    Start now. Your lungs are the doctor within your body.


    Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as SP6 (Sanyinjiao), LI4 (Hegu), and LR3 (Taichong) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or medical professional before proceeding.
    Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult a medical professional.

  • Shangjuxu (ST37) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Accurate Location and Pressure Technique

    One-line summary: ST37 (Shangqu Xu) is a bone marrow point on the leg that is excellent for improving digestive system disorders such as diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

    What is ST37?

    ST37 (Shangqu Xu) is an acupoint belonging to the Stomach channel of Foot-Yangming. As the name suggests, it means “above the great hollow.” It is an important acupoint for treating diseases of the small and large intestines, particularly regulating the motility function of the digestive system to promote intestinal health.

    How to Find the Exact Location

    Step 1: Locate ST36 (Zusanli), which is found approximately 4 cun (about three finger-widths) below the knee on the outer front of the leg.
    Step 2: Move down 1 more cun (about one thumb-width) below ST36.
    Step 3: Find the area just outside the tibia (shinbone), where the muscles of the anterior leg form a depression—this is ST37. When pressed, you should feel slight pain or tenderness at the correct location.

    How to Apply Acupressure

    Preparation: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position and relax your legs.
    Step 1: Contact the ST37 acupoint with the pad of your thumb, applying pressure perpendicular to the surface.
    Step 2: Apply pressure gradually, starting with light pressure and gradually increasing the strength.
    Step 3: Maintain pressure for 3-5 seconds while breathing deeply.
    Step 4: Slowly release the pressure and lift your thumb.
    Repetition: Repeat the same procedure 10-15 times on each leg.

    Key Benefits

    • Improved diarrhea: Normalizes excessive intestinal motility and effectively relieves diarrhea symptoms.
    • Constipation relief: Promotes peristaltic movement of the intestines for smoother bowel movements.
    • Abdominal pain relief: Reduces cramping pain and inflammation-related abdominal discomfort in the digestive system.
    • Enhanced digestive function: Improves intestinal immune function to enhance overall digestive health.
    • Reduced abdominal bloating: Alleviates abdominal discomfort and bloating caused by gas.

    When Should You Apply Acupressure?

    Best timing: 2-3 times daily. Pressure is most effective when applied on an empty stomach in the morning and 2 hours after evening meals. Applying pressure when intestinal peristalsis is most active is particularly beneficial.
    Recommended situations: Apply pressure when experiencing digestive discomfort, difficulty with bowel movements, abdominal bloating, or gas accumulation to help relieve symptoms. For regular maintenance, it is best to apply pressure at the same time each day.

    Precautions

    Situations to avoid: If you have acute abdominal pain or serious abdominal disease, always obtain a medical diagnosis from a healthcare professional before applying pressure. Avoid the area if there are wounds or inflammation on the skin.
    Cautions during pressure application: Excessive pressure can cause muscle damage or bruising, so maintain moderate pressure. If you are pregnant or have a serious medical condition, consult with a healthcare professional. Avoid cold foods and overeating within 2 hours after applying pressure.

    🤰 Pregnancy warning: Certain acupoints such as SP6 (Sanyinjiao), LI4 (Hegu), and LR3 (Taichong) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, consult with a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before applying pressure.
    ⚠️ 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, consult with a healthcare professional.

  • Dubi (ST35) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

    One-line Summary: Dubi is an important acupoint on the Stomach meridian that relieves knee pain and leg weakness.

    What is Dubi?

    Dubi (ST35) is an acupoint on the Stomach meridian. It is an important acupoint that governs the health of the knee joint, and is particularly effective in relieving knee pain, leg pain, leg weakness, and numbness in the legs.

    How to Find the Exact Location

    Step 1: Sit comfortably and extend both legs, then gently bend your knees.
    Step 2: Feel the area below and to the outside of the kneecap (patella).
    Step 3: Find the depression (indentation) below and to the outside of the kneecap. This is the location of Dubi.
    Step 4: Below the outer edge of the tibia, when the knee is bent, the depression that appears is the location of Dubi. It is located at the upper part of the calf muscle.

    Acupressure Method

    Basic Acupressure Technique:
    1. Sit comfortably with your legs extended or gently bent.
    2. Locate the acupoint using the pad of your thumb or middle finger (not the nail).
    3. Press vertically, beginning with light pressure.
    4. Gradually increase the pressure and hold for 3-5 seconds.
    5. Slowly release the pressure, rest for 1 second, and repeat.
    6. It is recommended to repeat 10-15 times per session.
    Frequency: 2-3 times per day, preferably morning and evening.

    Key Benefits

    • Knee pain relief: Rapidly improves knee arthritis, patellar pain, and pain near the knee.
    • Leg pain improvement: Relieves calf pain, pain throughout the leg, and reduces muscle stiffness.
    • Relief from leg weakness: Alleviates leg weakness, numbness, and cramping while restoring leg strength.
    • Promotes blood circulation: Improves blood circulation in the lower body and enhances overall leg health.
    • Digestive health: As an acupoint on the Stomach meridian, it also helps improve digestive function.

    When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?

    Optimal time: Acupressure is most effective between 3 PM and 5 PM (when the Stomach meridian is most active). However, it is also beneficial to apply it after waking in the morning and before bed at night.
    Optimal situations: Apply acupressure when your knee hurts, when your legs feel numb, after prolonged standing or sitting, or when experiencing leg fatigue after exercise. It is even more effective when combined with stretching.

    Precautions

    • If there is swelling or inflammation in the knee, start with light pressure.
    • If pregnant, consult with a professional before applying acupressure.
    • After knee surgery, wait for sufficient recovery time before applying acupressure.
    • If pain is severe, do not force acupressure; consult with a professional (acupuncturist or traditional medicine practitioner).
    • Excessive acupressure on the same area may cause skin damage, so maintain appropriate pressure intensity.
    • Avoid applying pressure to infected wounds or areas with skin conditions.

    🤰 Pregnant Woman Caution: 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 applying acupressure.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, please consult with a healthcare professional.

  • 5 Acupoints for Depression — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-line summary: Pressing 5 acupoints—Taichong, Baihui, Shenmen, Xinshu, and Ganshu—for just 5 minutes daily can naturally ease anxiety, stress, and sleep disorders caused by depression.

    Introduction

    Do you dread waking up in the morning and have no motivation to do anything? One in three modern people experience depressive feelings. While medication is important, there’s a hidden clinic in the acupoints of your fingertips and body that we often overlook. By stimulating just 5 acupoints—discovered from 2,000 years of traditional medicine wisdom—for 5 minutes daily, you can lighten the heaviness of your mind.

    5 Acupoints Effective for Depression

    1. Taichong — LR3 (Liver 3)

    Location: On the dorsum of the foot, in the depression anterior to the metatarsal junction between the big toe and second toe

    Benefits: Taichong is called the “gatekeeper of emotions,” easing suppressed anger, anxiety, and tension caused by stress. It activates liver function to enhance emotional regulation and improve sleep quality.

    Pressing Technique: Sit in a comfortable position and extend your legs. Locate the area between your big toe and second toe with your thumb, then slowly press and release 10-15 times. Mild tenderness when starting is normal. Apply the same technique to both feet.

    2. Baihui — GV20 (Governing Vessel 20)

    Location: The highest point of the crown of the head. The intersection point where a line connecting the tops of both ears meets a line running from the space between the eyebrows up to the crown

    Benefits: As the central point for the head and nervous system, it eases head heaviness, dizziness, and nervousness caused by depression. It promotes qi and blood circulation to enhance brain activity and improve cognitive function.

    Pressing Technique: Look in a mirror to locate the highest point of your crown. Overlap your middle or index fingers from both hands and press vertically, then release 20-30 times. You can also gently stimulate it by making circular motions like a massage. Performing this 2-3 times daily is most effective.

    3. Shenmen — HT7 (Heart 7)

    Location: On the wrist crease, about 5mm above the ulnar (pinky finger side) end of the wrist crease that appears when you clench your fist

    Benefits: Governing heart and mental function, it calms anxiety, restlessness, and heart palpitations. It improves sleep disorders and nightmares accompanying depression and stabilizes the mind.

    Pressing Technique: Extend your arm with your palm facing upward. Use your opposite thumb to locate and precisely press the ulnar end of the wrist crease. Press for 5-10 seconds until you feel a slight soreness, then release; repeat 5-10 times. Stimulating both hands 10 minutes before bed aids sound sleep.

    4. Xinshu — BL15 (Bladder 15)

    Location: On the middle of the back, one vertebra below the 5th thoracic vertebra (the prominent bone below the shoulder blade), about 1.5 finger widths lateral to the spine on both sides

    Benefits: Governing heart function and mental health, it resolves psychological instability, depression, and chest tightness. It improves blood circulation to promote oxygen supply to the brain and helps stabilize the nervous system.

    Pressing Technique: Lie flat on your back and have someone assist, or if doing it alone, place a tennis ball on your back and slowly press and massage. Since accurate point location is important, initially consult an acupressure specialist to confirm the location before starting self-massage. Stimulate 3-4 times weekly, 5 minutes each time.

    5. Ganshu — BL18 (Bladder 18)

    Location: On the middle of the back, below the 9th thoracic vertebra (at the level of the rib cage edge), about 1.5 finger widths lateral to the spine on both sides

    Benefits: Governing liver function and emotional stability, it improves emotional instability such as irritability and frequent mood changes. It relieves the stress and anger that cause depression and aids energy recovery.

    Pressing Technique: Standing or sitting upright, if you cannot reach your back by bringing both arms forward, use a tennis ball or massage stick. Slowly press and release using the second knuckle of your fingers, repeating 15-20 times. Performing this with deep breathing doubles the effectiveness.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Depression Relief Golden Timer
    In just 5 minutes during a busy morning or evening, follow these steps:

    Step 1 (1 minute): Press Taichong on both sides, 30 seconds each → Relieve stress and anger
    Step 2 (1 minute): Press Shenmen on both sides, 30 seconds each → Calm your mind
    Step 3 (1 minute): Press Baihui for 1 minute → Improve focus and activate the brain
    Step 4 (1 minute): Alternate stimulating Xinshu and Ganshu → Recharge body energy
    Step 5 (1 minute): Take 3 deep breaths and meditate → Settle the effects

    Tips to Maximize Results: By practicing once in the morning and once in the evening (especially 1 hour before bed), you can notice emotional changes within 3-4 weeks. Proceed step-by-step with warm hands.

    🤰 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, consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before proceeding.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.

  • 5 Acupoints Beneficial for Both Cough and Indigestion

    One-line summary: If you have cough and indigestion at the same time, pressing ST36, SP6, GV14, CV17, and CV12 in sequence can improve both respiratory and digestive function simultaneously.

    Introduction

    Everyone has experienced a cough that comes with each change of season, or the frustration of poor digestion, right? What’s even more difficult is when these two symptoms appear together. In traditional Chinese medicine, when multiple symptoms appear together like this, we approach the fundamental causes: decreased stamina and weakened immunity. Today, I’ll introduce five acupoints that can relieve both cough and indigestion at the same time.

    Five Acupoints for Cough and Indigestion

    1. Zusanli — ST36

    Location: Located 3 cun below the knee (three finger-widths), approximately 1 cun (thumb-width) to the outside of the anterior tibial surface.

    Benefits: ST36 is the most important acupoint for boosting immunity and improving overall stamina. It normalizes digestive function and strengthens the respiratory system, making it effective for cough relief. Regular stimulation strengthens the body’s resistance.

    Pressure technique: Apply strong pressure with your thumb for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat this process. Press for 1 minute per leg, 2-3 times daily for best results. Since this point responds well to warmth, pressing with warm hands enhances effectiveness.

    2. Sanyinjiao — SP6

    Location: Located 3 cun above the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone), on the posterior aspect of the medial tibial surface.

    Benefits: SP6 is an important acupoint that regulates multiple body systems including digestive, respiratory, and urinary functions. It’s particularly effective for indigestion, abdominal bloating, and chronic cough, and boosts immunity to promote cold recovery. It excels at improving both respiratory and digestive function simultaneously.

    Pressure technique: Massage in circular motions with your thumb, or apply pressure for 3-5 seconds repeatedly. Press for 1 minute on each leg, twice daily. Pressing this point in the evening also promotes better sleep.

    3. Dazhui — GV14

    Location: Located in the depression directly below the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra (the most prominent bone when you tilt your head forward).

    Benefits: GV14 is the most effective acupoint for respiratory conditions, excelling at relieving symptoms of colds, cough, and asthma. It also boosts overall immunity, aids temperature regulation, and strengthens the body’s defensive functions. This is a must-press acupoint when cough is the primary symptom.

    Pressure technique: Finding the exact location at the back of the neck is important. Tilt your head slightly forward, find the area directly below the prominent bone, and apply 3-5 second pressure with your thumb repeatedly. Be careful not to press too hard, as it may cause dizziness. Maintain moderate pressure. Press 2-3 times daily, for 30 seconds to 1 minute per session.

    4. Tanzhong — CV17

    Location: Located on the sternum at the midpoint between the two nipples. Anatomically, it corresponds to the 4th intercostal space (between the fourth ribs).

    Benefits: CV17 regulates respiratory and cardiac function, and is effective for chest tightness, shortness of breath, and chronic cough. It activates lung function to alleviate cough and improves qi and blood circulation in the chest. It provides immediate relief when the chest feels tight or breathing feels uncomfortable.

    Pressure technique: Since it’s on the breastbone, apply gentle pressure without too much force. Apply 3-second pressure with your thumb or middle finger, repeating 10 times, twice daily. It’s beneficial to focus on this point right before bed or when cough is severe.

    5. Zhongwan — CV12

    Location: Located 4 cun above the navel, at the midpoint between the epigastrium and umbilicus. It’s on the anterior midline of the abdomen.

    Benefits: CV12 is the most important acupoint for the digestive system, effectively improving indigestion, abdominal bloating, nausea, and loss of appetite. It promotes peristalsis of the stomach and intestines, normalizes digestive function, and facilitates food intake and nutrient absorption. It also plays an important role in restoring stamina.

    Pressure technique: Since it’s on the abdomen, press while in a comfortable position. Massage in clockwise circles with your thumb, or apply pressure for 3-5 seconds repeatedly. Press twice daily, for 1 minute per session. It’s best to press this point one hour after meals.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    This routine allows you to manage both cough and indigestion simultaneously in just 5 minutes during a busy morning or evening. ① CV12 (1 minute) — Massage above the navel in circular motions to activate digestive function. ② ST36 (1 minute) — 30 seconds per leg, to boost immunity and stamina. ③ SP6 (1 minute) — 30 seconds per side, to regulate respiratory and digestive systems simultaneously. ④ GV14 (1 minute) — Gently press the point at the back of the neck to calm cough. ⑤ CV17 (1 minute) — Finish by gently stimulating the chest to ease breathing. By repeating this routine 1-2 times daily, you should notice improvement in cough and indigestion after approximately 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 possibly pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practice.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written 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 for Fever — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    5 Acupoints for Fever — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-line summary: Fever symptoms can be managed by stimulating 5 acupoints including Hegu (LI4), Quchi (LI11), and Dazhui (GV14) to lower body temperature and strengthen immune function.

    Introduction

    Fever caused by viral infection or inflammation is a signal your body sends. While acupressure may not work as quickly as medication, stimulating specific acupoints recognized in traditional medicine can help with temperature regulation and immune enhancement. This article will walk you through the exact locations and step-by-step self-massage techniques for 5 acupoints effective for fever.

    5 Acupoints Effective for Fever

    1. Hegu — LI4

    Location: The depression between the thumb and index finger, precisely at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone (the joint of the finger bones). You can find it by opening your palm and feeling between the thumb and index finger—it’s at the highest point.

    Benefits: This is the most essential acupoint for fever, excelling at temperature regulation, cold symptom relief, and immune enhancement. It also improves headaches and facial swelling.

    Massage technique: Use the thumb of your opposite hand to press vertically onto Hegu. Press slowly for the first 3 seconds, maintain pressure for 3 seconds, then release over 3 seconds. Apply pressure to the point of mild tenderness and repeat 10 times.

    2. Quchi — LI11

    Location: The outer end of the crease formed when you bend your elbow. Bend your arm to 90 degrees, then move from the inner elbow crease outward along the crease line—the depression at the furthest end is Quchi.

    Benefits: This is highly effective at reducing fever and immediately relieves arm fatigue and heat sensation. It quickly suppresses skin heat and inflammatory responses.

    Massage technique: Use your thumb or middle finger to locate Quchi, then press vertically with firm pressure while your arm is bent. Repeat pressing for 5 seconds and releasing for 5 seconds, 15 times total. For fever, pressing 3-4 times daily is effective.

    3. Dazhui — GV14

    Location: The depression below the most prominent bone when you tilt your head downward (the 7th cervical vertebra). Find it in the depression slightly above the center of the back of your neck—you’ll feel a clear hollow area.

    Benefits: This strengthens overall immune function, aids recovery of vitality, and relieves whole-body discomfort from fever. It’s particularly effective for prolonged low-grade fevers.

    Massage technique: Self-massage is difficult, so ideally get someone’s help. If doing it alone, use a rounded rod (such as a massage stick) to gently stimulate the center of the back of your neck for about 5 minutes. Avoid overly strong pressure.

    4. Neiting — ST44

    Location: Between the toes, precisely at the webbed area between the second and third toes (the crease above the joint at the base of the toes). It exists on both feet.

    Benefits: This acupoint directs the body’s heat downward to relieve fever and helps calm the nervous system and reduce stress. It also improves sleep quality.

    Massage technique: Locate Neiting with your finger, then use the tip of your thumb to press vertically into the depression between the toes. Apply pressure for 5-10 seconds on each foot, repeating 10-15 times for each side. Soaking your feet in warm water before massage is more effective.

    5. Waiguan — TE5

    Location: About 2 cun (approximately 6 cm) above the crease on the back of your wrist (upper forearm), in the depression between the radius (thumb side) and ulna (pinky side) bones. You can find it by extending your palm and moving upward along the center line of your forearm.

    Benefits: This activates immune response and helps regulate body temperature. It excels at fatigue recovery and heat relief, and also improves arm heaviness.

    Massage technique: Use the thumb of your opposite hand to locate Waiguan, then massage in circles clockwise for 10 seconds, then counterclockwise for 10 seconds. Perform for about 3 minutes per session, 2-3 times daily.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Here’s a perfect 5-minute routine you can do when experiencing fever symptoms: (1) Firmly massage Hegu on both hands for 1 minute each (2 minutes total), (2) Massage Quchi on both arms for 30 seconds each (1 minute total), (3) Massage Neiting on both feet for 1 minute each (2 minutes total). Repeating this routine 3-4 times daily will typically improve fever symptoms within 2-3 days. Drink warm water after massage to promote metabolism. If your fever is above 39°C or persists for more than 3 days, you must see a healthcare professional.

    🤰 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, consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before performing these techniques.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational health purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, consult with a healthcare professional.