How to

Acupressure

This guide shares how to locate acupuncture points and the energetic intentions from our in-person acupressure workshop.

You can stimulate acupuncture points through tapping or gentle massage. Tap or massage each point for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

You may feel energy shifting which can feel like a numbing, tingling, or rushing sensation. Typically, the most tender acupuncture points are the ones we most need. Breathe and observe how your body feels. 

*Note points to be avoided during pregnancy

  • Joining Valley

    Location: On the top of the hand, in the webbing between the forefinger and thumb, or at the highest point of the muscle bulge.

    Energetics: Letting go and releasing. When used with the Great Rushing points, this combination is called Four Gates and regulates the flow of Qi throughout your whole body.

    *AVOID DURING PREGNANCY

  • Great Rushing

    On the top of the foot, in the depression between the bones of the big toe and second toe.

    Energetics: Moves energy and is helpful when feeling you feel stuck or stagnant. When used with the Joining Valley points, the combination is called Four Gates and regulates the flow of Qi throughout your whole body.

  • Three Yin Intersection

    Location: From your inner ankle bone, measure 4 fingers-width up the leg, in a depression on the edge of the inner shin bone.

    Energetics: Supports dropping into your body, shifting focus from your thoughts to embodied presence.

    *AVOID DURING PREGNANCY

  • One Hundred Meetings

    Location: At the crown of your head, in line with and halfway between the tops of the ears.

    Energetics: Where your spirit enters and exits the body.

  • Palace of Weariness

    Location: Near the center of the palm, where the tip of the middle finger lands when you make a fist.

    Energetics: Connects to the energy of the heart’s protector and creates space to process your emotions.

    *AVOID DURING PREGNANCY

  • Inner Gate

    Location: From the inside wrist crease, measure 3 fingers-width up the arm.

    Energetics: Connects to your internal world and how you relate to yourself.

  • Outer Gate

    Location: On the outside wrist crease, measure 3 fingers-width up the arm.

    Energetics: Connects with your external world and your relationships with others.

  • Listening Palace

    Location: In front of the tragus of the ear, in the depression when the mouth is open.

    Energetics: Helps to genuinely connect with others. Helps to sort through and discern what is relevant to us.