Zhe Jin (GB23), also known as Sinew Seat, is a valuable acupoint that addresses a wide range of issues, from digestive discomfort to hormonal imbalances—conditions that may seem unrelated in Western medicine. While you might need multiple doctor visits to tackle these concerns, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners often turn to this single acupoint for relief.
Why Zhe Jin Is Such a Versatile Acupoint
In TCM clinical practice, Zhe Jin is recognized as a powerhouse acupoint. It helps with digestive discomfort like acid reflux and vomiting, soothes chest tightness and breathing difficulties, and alleviates shoulder and upper back pain.In modern clinical practice, it is used to support lymphatic drainage and reduce inflammation in swollen lymph nodes. For women, it’s particularly valuable in easing breast tenderness caused by hormonal fluctuations linked to menstrual cycles. Beyond physical relief, this acupoint is said to calm anger outbursts and frustration, making it a must-know acupoint for holistic health.
What Makes Zhe Jin So Powerful?
Zhe Jin’s primary function is to regulate the flow of energy along the gallbladder meridian, which is closely linked to the liver meridian. Since the liver plays a crucial role in hormone regulation and emotional balance in TCM theory, this connection explains why Zhe Jin can ease hormonal symptoms and support emotional stability.Additionally, its position near the chest relieves upper body tension, improves breathing, and promotes better circulation. Supporting energy flow and clearing blockages allows this acupoint to address both physical and emotional health at once.
The Challenges of Studying Zhe Jin in Modern Medicine
Despite its wide range of benefits in TCM, modern medicine has been cautious about incorporating Zhe Jin into clinical studies. The primary reason is the high risk associated with its location. The acupuncture manuals recommend needling this point no deeper than 0.3 to 0.5 of an inch, as needling it too deeply can cause lung puncture. Therefore, most research on Zhe Jin focuses on mitigating the risk of complications. While acupuncture studies on this point are limited, its effectiveness in pain relief and hormone regulation continues to be widely acknowledged within TCM practice.How to Locate and Stimulate Zhe Jin
Locating Zhe Jin is simple once you understand its placement. It is situated between the fourth and fifth rib, one finger width forward from the midline of the armpit. A helpful tip for male practitioners is to imagine a horizontal line drawn from the nipple to the midline of the side of the body—Zhe Jin falls along this path.Story continues below advertisement
Stimulating Zhe Jin can be done safely at home using the following methods:
- Direct Pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular Massage: Use your index finger or thumb to massage in slow circles for one to three minutes per side.
- Herbal Patch Therapy: Apply an herbal patch overnight for convenience. This method can be effective for breast tenderness before menstruation and is best done preventatively.
- Advanced Therapies: Moxibustion, the practice of burning mugwort near the acupoint, can be used but should only be performed by a trained TCM professional. Acupuncture is not advised.
Important Safety Considerations
Because of its proximity to the lungs, acupuncture on Zhe Jin should only be done by a highly skilled and certified TCM practitioner. Deep needling can pose significant risks, making proper technique essential.Individuals with injuries in the chest area should avoid stimulating this acupoint. When using herbal patches, choose natural, non-irritating ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.
A Powerful Tool for Holistic Self-Care
Zhe Jin is a valuable acupoint that helps regulate two major organs—the liver and gallbladder—while providing triple benefits: pain relief, hormonal regulation, and digestive support. According to TCM, a healthy flow of energy in the liver and the gallbladder is also crucial for achieving emotional balance and maintaining a sense of calm, even in stressful situations. The potential to address multiple health concerns through a single acupoint makes Zhe Jin an excellent introduction to the benefits of acupressure.This article has been medically checked and reviewed by Dr. Shihhsiang Hung.
Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate. To submit an opinion piece, please follow these guidelines and submit through our form here.
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