Acupoint Guide

Tag: ST25

  • Tianshu (ST25) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

    One-line summary: Tianshu is an acupoint that regulates digestive function, and by gently pressing around the navel, you can improve constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other conditions.

    What is Tianshu?

    Tianshu (天樞, ST25) is an important acupoint belonging to the Stomach meridian of Foot-Yangming. ‘Tian’ (天) means heaven, and ‘Shu’ (樞) means central axis, which signifies that this acupoint plays an important role in regulating large intestine function from the center of the body. Located in the center of the abdomen, this acupoint is excellent at promoting the overall function of the digestive system and improving intestinal peristalsis.

    How to Find the Exact Location

    Finding Tianshu location:
    1. Lie down and place the middle fingers of both hands on the navel, then spread them horizontally to the left and right.
    2. Move about 2 cun (approximately 5cm) to the side from the navel.
    3. Tianshu acupoints are located on both the left and right sides at the same horizontal line as the navel.
    4. When you press with light pressure, you may feel a slight warmth or resistance.

    Acupressure Technique

    Basic acupressure technique:
    1. Lie down in a comfortable position and completely relax your abdomen.
    2. Gently place the tips of your thumbs or middle fingers of both hands on the Tianshu acupoint.
    3. Initially, slowly press for about 3 seconds, then release for 2 seconds (repeat 10 times).
    4. Gradually increase the pressure and continue until you feel a warm sensation.
    5. Gently massaging in a clockwise circular motion is also effective.
    6. One acupressure session should last approximately 5-10 minutes.

    Key Benefits

    • Constipation relief: Activates large intestine contraction to promote bowel movements.
    • Diarrhea relief: Regulates and normalizes excessive large intestine function.
    • Abdominal pain relief: Alleviates digestive cramping and pain.
    • Bloating relief: Promotes gas elimination and reduces abdominal discomfort.
    • Indigestion improvement: Enhances stomach and digestive function.
    • Intestinal immunity enhancement: Maintains intestinal health through regular acupressure.

    When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?

    Tianshu is most effective when stimulated before bedtime or immediately after waking in the morning. It is best to apply pressure at least 1 hour after meals. For constipation, acupressure 2-3 times daily is recommended. For diarrhea symptoms, warm massage using warm hands is more effective. You can also immediately apply acupressure during sudden abdominal pain to relieve the discomfort.

    Precautions

    Avoid acupressure if you have wounds or inflammation on your abdomen. Pregnant women or those with serious abdominal conditions should consult a healthcare professional. Excessive pressure may increase abdominal discomfort, so always maintain appropriate pressure. If symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, please consult a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional.

    🤰 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 a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before applying acupressure.
    ⚠️ 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, please consult a healthcare professional.

  • 5 Acupoints for Menstrual Pain — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-line summary: Stimulating five acupoints—Sanyinjiao, Taichong, Guanyuan, Qihai, and Tianshu—can rapidly alleviate menstrual pain symptoms. Repeating this monthly can reduce menstrual pain itself.

    Introduction

    Menstrual pain is a condition that affects many women, characterized by abdominal cramps, lower back pain, and fatigue that appear before menstruation. Rather than relying on painkillers, there is a method called acupoint pressure that harnesses the body’s natural healing power. By consistently stimulating five acupoints validated in traditional Chinese medicine, you can expect not only menstrual pain relief but also improvement in menstrual cycle regularity.

    Five Effective Acupoints for Menstrual Pain

    1. Sanyinjiao — SP6

    Location: Three cun above the inner ankle bone (medial malleolus), on the posterior aspect of the medial surface of the tibia. It is located near the posterior tibia, approximately three finger-widths above the inner ankle bone.

    Benefits: Sanyinjiao is a key acupoint for menstrual pain relief and is directly connected to the uterus. It excels at regulating menstrual cycles, alleviating abdominal cramps, and improving hormonal imbalances. Regularly stimulating this point before menstruation can reduce menstrual pain intensity by over 50%.

    Pressure Technique: Place the tip of your thumb on the inner side of both ankles and apply pressure for 10-15 seconds with a mildly tender intensity. Breathe slowly and repeat three times. It is most effective to stimulate this point 2-3 times daily starting five days before menstruation.

    2. Taichong — LR3

    Location: On the dorsum of the foot, in the depression anterior to the junction of the first and second metatarsals (between the first and second toes). You can naturally locate it by following your finger between the toes.

    Benefits: As an important acupoint on the Liver meridian, it is particularly effective for stress-induced menstrual pain and emotional changes. It alleviates premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms such as nervousness, anxiety, and abdominal bloating, and promotes overall energy circulation throughout the body to reduce pain sensitivity.

    Pressure Technique: Place your thumb vertically on the acupoint on the dorsum of both feet and repeat pressing and releasing for one minute. Apply moderate pressure without causing pain. Practicing this habitually once in the morning and once in the evening can significantly improve stress-related menstrual pain.

    3. Guanyuan — CV4

    Location: Three cun below the umbilicus (approximately four finger-widths). It is located on the midline, three finger-widths below the umbilicus.

    Benefits: As a key acupoint of the Conception Vessel, it governs overall vitality and reproductive function. It improves not only menstrual pain but also all menstruation-related symptoms such as irregular periods, abnormal menstrual flow, and cold in the lower abdomen. Prolonged stimulation of this point strengthens the lower dantian (energy center) and enhances the vitality of the entire body.

    Pressure Technique: Lie down in a comfortable position and gently place three overlapping fingers on the Guanyuan acupoint below the umbilicus. Apply gentle circular massage in a counterclockwise direction for 2-3 minutes. Practicing this for five minutes each evening before bed can gradually alleviate menstrual pain.

    4. Qihai — CV6

    Location: One and a half cun below the umbilicus (approximately two finger-widths). It is located at the midpoint between Guanyuan and the umbilicus.

    Benefits: As an important acupoint where qi (vital energy) accumulates on the Conception Vessel, it immediately alleviates lower abdominal cramps caused by menstrual pain. It is very effective as emergency acupressure treatment when severe pain occurs during menstruation. It also promotes digestive function and metabolism, simultaneously improving menstruation-related bloating and constipation.

    Pressure Technique: Place your thumb vertically on the Qihai acupoint below the umbilicus and apply slow pressure for 5-10 seconds with a comfortable intensity. Repeat 3-5 times. When menstrual pain is severe, it is fine to repeat at two-hour intervals.

    5. Tianshu — ST25

    Location: Two cun to the side of the umbilicus (approximately three finger-widths). It is located symmetrically on both sides of the umbilicus.

    Benefits: As an acupoint on the Stomach meridian, it regulates the function of abdominal organs and promotes intestinal peristalsis. It alleviates abdominal bloating, digestive discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation that occur during menstruation, and fundamentally reduces menstrual pain by improving blood circulation around the uterus.

    Pressure Technique: Place your middle finger on the Tianshu acupoints on both sides of the umbilicus and apply gentle circular massage in a clockwise direction for 2-3 minutes. Practice once in the morning and once in the evening, especially effective one hour after eating. Continue stimulation until you feel your abdomen warming.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    5-Minute Emergency Acupressure for Acute Menstrual Pain:

    ① Sanyinjiao (both sides, 15 seconds each) → ② Qihai (5 seconds × 3 times) → ③ Tianshu (both sides, 1-minute circular massage each) → ④ Taichong (both sides, 30 seconds each)

    Following this sequence for a total of five minutes, cramping and pain caused by menstrual pain can be significantly alleviated within 10-20 minutes. You may repeat this after four hours if needed.

    Preventive Routine Before Menstruation (Starting Five Days Before):

    Intensively stimulate Sanyinjiao and Guanyuan once each morning and evening (2 minutes each). Maintaining this until menstruation starts can reduce menstrual pain intensity in advance, and continuing for over three months can fundamentally improve menstrual pain.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may induce 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 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 healthcare professional.

  • 5 Essential Acupoints for Abdominal Bloating — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-line summary: Pressing 5 acupoints that normalize digestive function for 5 minutes daily can help relieve abdominal bloating.

    Introduction

    Abdominal bloating—whether it occurs after eating or persists throughout the day—is a common concern for modern people. While irregular eating habits, stress, and reduced digestive function are the main causes, before relying on over-the-counter remedies or medications, you can improve the condition through self-acupressure on 5 verified acupoints mentioned in traditional medicine texts. Today, we’ll introduce the acupoints and correct pressing techniques that are effective for relieving abdominal bloating.

    5 Acupoints Effective for Abdominal Bloating

    1. Zu San Li — ST36

    Location: 3 cun below the knee (approximately 10 cm), one thumb-width to the lateral side of the anterior tibia. When the knee is bent, it’s located approximately four finger-widths below the lateral edge of the kneecap.

    Benefits: Promotes digestive function, normalizes gastric acid secretion, strengthens intestinal peristalsis, and enhances immune function to improve both abdominal bloating and indigestion simultaneously.

    Pressing technique: Use your thumb to apply gentle pressure until you feel slight soreness and fullness, maintaining pressure for 3-5 minutes. It’s even more effective to practice twice daily (morning and evening).

    2. Zhong Wan — CV12

    Location: 4 cun above the navel (approximately 12-14 cm), located on the midline between the epigastrium and navel. You can find it by slowly moving your fingers upward from the navel.

    Benefits: Strengthens stomach function, inhibits excess gastric acid secretion, promotes gas expulsion, and immediately relieves heaviness and heartburn caused by abdominal bloating.

    Pressing technique: Use three fingers (index, middle, and ring finger) held together to apply gentle vertical pressure or perform clockwise circular massage. It’s best to practice 30 minutes to 1 hour after meals for 3-5 minutes.

    3. Tian Shu — ST25

    Location: 2 cun to the lateral side of the navel (approximately 6 cm) on both sides. It’s located approximately four finger-widths to the side of the navel.

    Benefits: Normalizes large intestine function, promotes intestinal gas expulsion, improves constipation and diarrhea, and directly relieves abdominal discomfort caused by bloating.

    Pressing technique: Use both thumbs simultaneously to apply pressure inward toward the abdomen, or perform circular massage with three fingers. Gradually apply pressure until you feel resistance, maintaining it for 3-5 minutes.

    4. Yin Ling Quan — SP9

    Location: Below the inner knee, in the depression at the medial tibia. When the knee is bent, it’s in the hollow area slightly above the lower medial edge of the tibia.

    Benefits: Strengthens spleen function to improve water metabolism, removes fluid contributing to abdominal bloating, improves digestive efficiency, and simultaneously relieves both swelling and abdominal bloating.

    Pressing technique: Use your thumb to apply slow pressure toward the inside. Since there may be some discomfort, gently press for 3-5 minutes. It’s even more effective when combined with circular massage.

    5. Pi Shu — BL20

    Location: Below the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra (on the back), 1.5 cun (approximately 4-5 cm) to either side of the spine. It’s located approximately at the lower-middle area of the back when divided by height.

    Benefits: Directly stimulates the spleen meridian to fundamentally strengthen digestive function. It’s a key acupoint for long-term prevention and improvement of abdominal bloating.

    Pressing technique: Since this location is difficult to reach with your fingers, place a tennis ball against your back and lean against a wall, or use a massage tool while lying down to stimulate the area for 3-5 minutes.

    5-Minute Self-Routine

    Morning (within 30 minutes of waking): Zu San Li 3 minutes + Zhong Wan 2 minutes

    Lunch (1 hour after eating): Zhong Wan 3 minutes + Tian Shu 2 minutes

    Evening (30 minutes before bed): Tian Shu 2 minutes + Yin Ling Quan 2 minutes + Pi Shu 1 minute (using a tool)

    If you follow this routine for 2-3 weeks, abdominal bloating will noticeably improve, and you’ll feel your digestive function normalize over time. While you may experience slight discomfort initially, this is a sign of improved blood circulation, so there’s no need to worry.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as San Yin Jiao (SP6), He Gu (LI4), and Tai Chong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or potentially pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing.
    ⚠️ 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 healthcare professional.

  • 5 Best Acupoints for Indigestion — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-Line Summary: When you have poor digestion and feel uncomfortable, stimulating just 5 acupoints on your hands and legs can quickly restore stomach function.

    Introduction

    If hours after eating you still feel bloated, experience frequent gas, and have ongoing abdominal discomfort, indigestion is likely bothering you. Due to irregular eating habits and stress in modern life, indigestion is a very common symptom, but you don’t need to rely solely on medication. Traditional Chinese medicine has used acupoints that restore digestive function for thousands of years, and when these acupoints are stimulated correctly, you can experience remarkable results.

    5 Acupoints Effective for Indigestion

    1. Zusanli — ST36

    Location: 3 cun below the kneecap (approximately 10cm), on the outer lateral aspect of the anterior tibia. Following the edge of the tibia below the knee downward, you’ll find it in the hollow depression where your finger naturally settles.

    Effects: Called a “universal acupoint” that strengthens the entire digestive system, it activates stomach movement and promotes large intestine peristalsis, improving indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation all at once. It’s also excellent for boosting immunity and recovering from fatigue.

    Pressure Technique: Repeatedly press slowly and deeply with your thumb and release. Start with a rhythm of pressing for 3 seconds and resting for 3 seconds, performing about 10 repetitions per minute, and gradually increase intensity. Continue until you feel a warm sensation, and it’s most effective to apply pressure 3 times daily (morning, lunch, evening) 30 minutes after meals.

    2. Sanyinjiao — SP6

    Location: 3 cun above the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone), on the posterior-medial surface of the tibia. It’s found in the depression you encounter when sweeping your finger upward along the inner aspect of the shin bone.

    Effects: An acupoint that strengthens the function of the Spleen, which in traditional Chinese medicine controls digestion, absorption, and transportation. Stimulating Sanyinjiao increases digestive fluid secretion and enhances intestinal peristalsis, effectively improving indigestion as well as alleviating abdominal bloating and nausea.

    Pressure Technique: Apply pressure at a slight angle toward the toes. Press with your thumb for 5 seconds, then rest for 2 seconds, continuing for 2 minutes total. Apply to both legs (1 minute each), and when pressed before bed, digestion proceeds smoothly during sleep. It’s best to avoid stimulating this point during menstruation.

    3. Zhongwan — CV12

    Location: 4 cun above the navel (approximately 12cm), on the anterior midline of the abdomen. In other words, it’s exactly midway between the epigastrium and the navel.

    Effects: The “stomach acupoint” that directly regulates stomach function, improving all symptoms caused by reduced stomach function. It’s particularly effective for indigestion, abdominal bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, and digestive disturbances caused by stress. It also alleviates acid reflux and protects the stomach lining.

    Pressure Technique: Perform while lying down with a relaxed abdomen. Using your thumb or middle finger, apply pressure in gentle circular motions for 3 minutes. The best time is 1 hour after a meal, and the stimulation should not be too strong. Twice daily (morning and evening) is appropriate.

    4. Tianshu — ST25

    Location: 2 cun (approximately 5cm) lateral to the navel. It’s about two fingerwidths away to each side of the navel, at the same height.

    Effects: An acupoint that regulates large intestine function, completing digestion and promoting bowel movements. It rapidly alleviates abdominal discomfort, gas, and bloating caused by indigestion, and can improve both constipation and diarrhea. It’s excellent for normalizing intestinal peristalsis.

    Pressure Technique: Perform while lying down, stimulating both sides of the navel simultaneously using the middle or index fingers of both hands. Repeat 10 times, pressing for 5 seconds each, as one set, performing this 3 times daily (morning, lunch, evening). It’s particularly effective when stimulated before bowel movements.

    5. Neiting — ST44

    Location: Between the 2nd and 3rd toes of the foot, in the web space. It’s at the center of the crease that appears when you spread these two toes apart.

    Effects: An acupoint that clears heat from the stomach and promotes digestive function. It’s particularly effective for improving abdominal bloating and gas that occur during digestion, as well as stomach-related symptoms such as dry mouth and abnormal taste sensation. Quick relief can be seen when stimulated during sluggish digestion.

    Pressure Technique: Press deeply into the toe web with your thumb, angling inward. It’s good to perform for 2 minutes on each foot, 2 times daily (morning and evening). Since the stimulation is gentle, it can be done at any time.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    This is a 5-minute routine for improving indigestion that you can practice even in a busy schedule. Perform it 30 minutes after a meal:

    [Step 1] Zhongwan + Tianshu (1 minute) → While lying down, slowly move your fingers downward from the epigastrium to the navel, massaging gently.

    [Step 2] Zusanli (2 minutes) → From a seated position, apply pressure to the Zusanli points below both knees with your thumb for 1 minute on each side.

    [Step 3] Sanyinjiao (1 minute) → Apply pressure to the Sanyinjiao points above the inner ankle on both sides with your thumb for 30 seconds each.

    [Step 4] Neiting (1 minute) → Press the area between the 2nd and 3rd toes of both feet with your thumb for 30 seconds each.

    By repeating this routine daily after lunch and dinner, you can feel improvements in digestion within about one week.

    🤰 Pregnancy Caution: 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 practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine or healthcare professional before use.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, consult a healthcare professional.

  • 5 Acupoints for Abdominal Pain — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-line summary: Stimulating five acupoints around the navel, arms, and legs can quickly relieve abdominal pain, indigestion, and abnormal bowel movement.

    Introduction

    Has sudden abdominal pain disrupted your daily life? Before taking medication, there’s a method you can do with just one finger. Acupoint pressure from traditional medicine is a way to listen to your body’s signals and restore it naturally. In this article, we introduce five of the most effective acupoints for abdominal pain and precise pressure techniques.

    Five Effective Acupoints for Abdominal Pain

    1. Qihai (CV6) — Conception Vessel 6

    Location: About 5cm below the navel (1.5 cun), located on the body’s midline. Lie down comfortably with your abdomen relaxed, then count your fingers downward from the navel.

    Effects: In traditional medicine, this acupoint is called the “Qi” reservoir and facilitates the flow of vital energy throughout the abdomen. It excels at improving digestive function, relieving abdominal bloating, and addressing chronic abdominal pain and diarrhea.

    Pressure technique: Warm your fingers or palm with a heating pad, then place your finger on the Qihai point below the navel. Maintain the warmth while slowly rubbing in circular motions clockwise. Repeat for 3-5 minutes, 2-3 times daily.

    2. Tianshu (ST25) — Stomach Meridian 25

    Location: About 5cm to the sides of the navel (2 cun). It’s located symmetrically on both sides of the navel, allowing you to stimulate both sides simultaneously.

    Effects: This acupoint regulates the function of the large and small intestines. It promotes intestinal peristalsis to relieve both constipation and diarrhea simultaneously, and is especially effective for abdominal bloating caused by gas and cramping pain.

    Pressure technique: Place the thumbs of both hands on the Tianshu points on both sides of the navel. Slowly press downward, maintaining a slight soreness (tender pressure point). Repeat pressing for 5 seconds and releasing 10 times, performing this 3-4 times daily.

    3. Gongsun (SP4) — Spleen Meridian 4

    Location: Below the inner joint fold at the base of the big toe, in the hollow where bone meets flesh. It’s easy to locate when you bend your foot toward your chest.

    Effects: This is a key acupoint (important point) that harmonizes the function of the spleen and stomach. It aids in promoting digestion, improving intestinal health, eliminating abdominal gas, and relieving loss of appetite. It’s especially effective for indigestion caused by stress.

    Pressure technique: Place the opposite thumb on the Gongsun point. Massage in circular motions, rubbing until it becomes slightly warm. Stimulate each foot for 3-5 minutes, 1-2 times daily. Effectiveness is higher when the technique is performed with the foot wrapped in a warm towel.

    4. Shousanli (LI10) — Large Intestine Meridian 10

    Location: About 5cm from the inner elbow fold toward the wrist (2 cun). With the arm bent, it’s located on the muscle on the outer side of the forearm.

    Effects: This is a powerful acupoint that enhances immunity and promotes digestive function. Beyond abdominal pain, it aids in overall fatigue recovery, improved digestion, and promotion of bowel movement. The Donguibogam (Principles and Practice of Eastern Medicine) records that “Sanli” prevents ten thousand diseases.

    Pressure technique: Place the opposite thumb on Shousanli. Slowly press for 3-5 seconds and then release, repeating this 10-15 times. You can also massage in circular motions. Stimulating 2-3 times daily, especially 30 minutes after meals, produces a high digestion-promoting effect.

    5. Dachang Shu (BL25) — Bladder Meridian 25

    Location: At the height below the fourth lumbar vertebral spinous process, about 4cm lateral to the spinal midline on both sides. It’s located near where your thumb touches when you place your hand on your lower back.

    Effects: This is a shu point (back transport point) that directly regulates large intestine function. It improves colon movement, normalizes intestinal peristalsis, and alleviates chronic abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping. It’s also effective for abdominal pain caused by coldness.

    Pressure technique: Lie down and place your hand under your back, or sit and reach your hands behind you to place your thumb or middle finger on Dachang Shu. Apply circular massage with warm fingers or repeat pressing for 3-5 seconds 10 times. It’s even more effective when performed over a heating pad or warm compress. Stimulate 2-3 times daily.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    When experiencing abdominal pain, follow this sequence: First, warm your hands with warm water or prepare a heating pad (1 minute). Circular massage of Qihai and Tianshu centered on the navel (2 minutes). Elevate your ankle comfortably and stimulate Gongsun on both feet (1 minute). Press Shousanli on both arms (1 minute). If possible, warm the Dachang Shu area (add within the time above). Repeating this routine 2-3 times daily, especially whenever you feel pain, allows you to experience rapid relief.

    🤰 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 medical professional before performing these techniques.
    ⚠️ 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.
  • Abdominal Bloating Self-Acupressure Introduction — Start with These 3 Points for Beginners

    Abdominal Bloating Self-Acupressure Introduction — Start with These 3 Points for Beginners

    One-Minute Summary: Acupressure is not a special technique. Just press three specific points with your fingertips and abdominal bloating becomes much easier to manage.

    Acupressure is Not Difficult

    That feeling of your belly swelling up after a meal—it’s really uncomfortable, isn’t it? That heaviness and the constraint on your activities. I have plenty of those days too, but I discovered that just pressing a few acupressure points a little bit every day makes a huge difference. Acupressure is not a special technique or a complicated process. It’s simply pressing slowly with your fingertips—that’s all there is to it. Today, I’ll introduce you to three points that even complete beginners can easily start with.

    What to Know Before You Start

    The Golden Rule of Acupressure is simple. First, avoid pressing to the point of pain. A pressure that feels “slightly tender yet pleasant” is just right. Second, relax your fingers and press slowly while exhaling deeply. Holding your breath creates tension in your body. Third, wash your hands thoroughly before acupressing, and warm your wrists with warm water for even better results. Start in a comfortable position with a relaxed mind.

    Remember These 3 Points Only

    First Point: Zusanli (ST36)

    How to Find It: Watch your knee as you move it. When you slightly bend your knee, a small hollow appears below the kneecap. Place three fingers side by side below that hollow, and you’ll find Zusanli on the outer side of the shin bone. At first you might wonder, “Is this exactly the right spot?” but when you press with your fingers, you’ll feel, “Ah, yes, this is it!” There is one point on each leg.

    How to Press It: Slowly press with your thumb, but don’t press too hard. Exhale slowly and press for 3 seconds, then gently rub in a circular motion a couple of times before releasing. Repeat this 5 to 10 times. Start gently and adjust to your comfort level.

    Press It When: When you wake up in the morning and feel like your digestion isn’t working, when you’ve eaten a lot at lunch and feel bloated, when you’re tired in the evening and your belly feels uncomfortable—Zusanli is a “universal acupoint” that aids digestion and boosts overall energy.

    Second Point: Zhongwan (CV12)

    How to Find It: Find your belly button. Then locate your epigastrium (the end of your breastbone). Zhongwan is at the exact midpoint between your belly button and epigastrium—about four finger-widths (approximately 10 cm) above your belly button. At first, you might measure with a ruler or move your fingers up to confirm, “Is this the spot?” When you gently press this point during abdominal bloating, you might feel a sensation of it “clicking” slightly inward.

    How to Press It: Lie down or sit comfortably and relax your abdominal muscles. Slowly press with your thumb or middle finger, but instead of feeling like you’re “pushing it out,” think of it as “pressing gently to awaken.” Press for 3 to 5 seconds at a time, repeat about 5 times, and that’s enough. If your belly feels warm after acupressing, you’ve done it correctly.

    Press It When: When you feel heaviness below your epigastrium, when your digestion seems not to be starting after eating, when your abdomen feels tense from stress—think of Zhongwan as the center of your entire digestive system.

    Third Point: Tianshu (ST25)

    How to Find It: Think of your belly button as the center. Tianshu is located on both sides of your belly button, exactly two finger-widths (approximately 5 cm) to the side. There is one on each side, so find both. When you gently press with your fingers, you’ll notice it feels particularly stiff or uncomfortable when you have abdominal bloating. That’s exactly where Tianshu is.

    How to Press It: Slowly press with your fingertips, but do it with a sense of compassion for your belly—as if transferring warmth. It’s also good to rub gently in a circular motion counterclockwise (starting from the right Tianshu). Spend about 1 minute at a time, doing this 2 to 3 times a day will activate your colon movement.

    Press It When: When your belly feels bloated and tight, when gas builds up and your belly rumbles, when you have a tendency toward constipation—Tianshu is the “magical point” that stimulates intestinal movement.

    Beginner’s 3-Minute Routine

    If you’re short on time, just remember this routine. We recommend doing it every morning right after you wake up, in under 5 minutes.

    Step 1 (1 minute): Press Zusanli on both sides, 30 seconds on each side. You can do this while sitting, so even a busy morning works.
    Step 2 (1 minute): Lie down and slowly press Zhongwan 3 to 5 times. Calm your mind with deep breathing.
    Step 3 (1 minute): Gently massage Tianshu on both sides of your belly button in counterclockwise circles. Continue until your belly feels warm.

    If abdominal bloating is severe in the evening, do this routine once more either 1 hour after lunch or after 7 p.m., and digestion will be much easier during the night.

    3 Common Beginner Mistakes

    1. Pressing Too Hard — Many people think, “It only works if it hurts” and press with force. Continuous gentle stimulation is more important than brief pain. Never press so hard that you get bruises.

    2. Giving Up After One Try — Acupressure is not a one-time thing. You need to do it consistently for at least one week to feel a difference. If expectations are high, disappointment will be too. Start with the mindset of “aiming for one month, but checking for results after one week.”

    3. Ignoring Your Posture — Doing it while standing or in an uncomfortable position is far less effective than doing it in a comfortable position with deep breathing. Relaxing both your mind and body is half of what acupressure is.

    Moving to the Next Level

    Once you’re comfortable with these three points and have done them consistently for about two weeks, you can try two additional points. Guanyuan (CV4, 3 cun below the belly button) further activates intestinal movement, and Qihai (CV6, 1.5 cun below the belly button) boosts energy throughout your entire abdomen. However, don’t try too many points from the beginning. Knowing three points perfectly is a hundred times better than knowing five points vaguely.

    🤰 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 possibly pregnant, be sure to consult with a Korean medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing acupressure.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, always consult with a healthcare professional.