In Part 1 and Part 2 we explored energy centers and gates. Now, let’s delve into some of the acupressure points, also referred to as acupoints. These are frequently recognized in qigong practices.
The Importance of Acupoints for Qigong Practitioners
Energy gates and centers along with a variety of acupoints are essential to maintaining a balanced flow of energy within our bodies. The selected acupoints described below are often discussed during qigong practice. Activating these points improves the flow of energy; this creates stronger mind-body awareness, helps relieve pain, invigorates the immune system and enhances overall well-being.
When engaged in the art of qigong, we recognize the locations of acupoints and how to activate them in order to upgrade the benefits of our practice. An awareness of acupoints amplifies our mastery of qigong which enhances the flow of energy in our body. Methods such as tapping, massaging, and visualizing these points help release stagnation and regulate qi flow.
Acupoint Locations
Acupoints are primarily found along the 12 Principal Meridians and the Ren and Du channels of Chinese Medicine. The 12 Meridians traverse the body from head to toe, with each side having six channels. The other two channels, the Ren “Conception Vessel” and Du “Governing Vessel”, are special channels that circulate around the body from back to front. The Du channel begins at the base of the spine and flows up the spine to the crown of the head where it moves down to meet the Ren channel just below the nose. The Ren channel then moves down the centerline of the front of the body to the perineum, creating an energetic loop. There are many acupoints on these channels. They can be in the same location as the energy gates and centers.
Each acupoint has multiple names. For the purposes of describing the acupoints below the Chinese (Pinyin) name is presented first and usually used by qigong teachers. Next is the acupoint designation along the meridian. The English translation, which can vary widely, provides insight into the spirit of the point.
A Selection of Acupoints
There are several acupoints that we often discuss and activate during our qigong practices, here’s a few (Part 1 and Part 2 of this series have others listed as well):
Feng Fu (GV 16 or Du 16) – Wind Mansion
Feng Fu is situated at the base of the skull, in the indentation at the center, just above the neck.
The name “Wind Mansion” reflects its susceptibility to wind invasion. In Chinese Medicine, this term describes the idea that cold winds can penetrate the body through this point, leading to disharmony. To protect yourself, it is recommended to keep Feng Fu warm by wearing high collars and scarves during cold or windy weather.
Stimulating Feng Fu is particularly beneficial for relieving headaches, migraines and tightness in the neck muscles. Massaging this point helps to calm the mind and reduce anxiety.
During qigong practice, Feng Fu is often stimulated through head tapping or massaging the head and neck. Proper head and neck alignment during qigong movements ensures optimal qi flow, particularly to the brain.
DazHui (GV 14 / Du 14) – Big or Great Hammer
Daz Hui is found just below the prominent cervical vertebra (C7).
This acupoint acts as a meeting place for all six yang meridians and the Governing Vessel. It functions as a central hub for the movement of qi and breath into the head, neck, and arms, playing a vital role in the Microcosmic Orbit Circulation.
Stimulating Daz Hui can improve the flow of qi, enhance energy circulation in the body and aid in optimal respiratory function.
Jian Jing (GB 21) – Shoulder Well
Jian Jing is located on the highest point of the shoulder, approximately halfway between the top of the shoulder joint and the seventh cervical vertebra.
It is an important point that regulates the flow of qi downward, both into the torso and the shoulder and arm. Stimulating Jian Jing provides relief to shoulder and neck pain and tension in the upper body. It can also regulate blood pressure by promoting relaxation.
Jian Jing is often stimulated during qigong warm ups which helps stabilize the body and relax the shoulders.
Da Bao (SP 21) – Great Embrace or Great Enveloping
Da Bao is found under your armpits between the 6th and 7th ribs on the side of your chest. In qigong practice we instruct new students to find Da Bao by poking around below their armpits until they find a sensitive spot.
Da Bao is the final point on the spleen meridian. It moves and regulates blood and qi, particularly lung qi and is beneficial for joints and connective tissue. This point provides relief from feelings of fullness on the chest and side rib pain. It can also provide relief for asthma and shortness of breath.
Da Bao addresses overall vitality so is often used to improve general aches and pains, particularly when feeling weak. This point is often pressed or massaged in some qigong forms.
Ming Men (GV 4) – Gate of Life
Ming Men is located on the low back, at approximately the second lumbar vertebra (L2). It is directly opposite the navel.
In Chinese Medicine and qigong, it is considered a vital point that influences the body’s qi and is associated with the kidneys. Ming Men plays a key role in the storage and regulation of life essence, which is fundamental for vitality and longevity. It is linked with the kidneys.
Stimulating Ming Men enhances overall kidney health, which helps support reproductive health and vitality. It improves overall energy levels and reduces fatigue.
In qigong practice gentle qigong movements stimulate the lower back and the Ming Men area to enhance qi flow and improve general health.
Hui Yin (REN 1) – Yin Meeting
Hui Yin is located at the center of the perineum and serves as a meeting point for the Ren, Du, and Chong Mai channels. It is directly opposite the crown of the head (Bai Hui, see Part 1).
Hui Yin gathers yin qi and is essential for internal qi flow and balancing with yang qi. Focusing on this point during qigong practice and meditation can help create a stabilizing effect on the body’s energy and enhance reproductive health.
