Acupressure Points on the Ren Mai
What is the Ren Mai?
The Ren mai (Conception vessel) is considered an extraordinary vessel—one of the eight pathways of qi in the body outside of the twelve major meridians. The Ren mai runs through the midline of the body, from the base of the torso to the chin, where it connects with the Du mai (Governor vessel). The Du mai runs from the base of the tailbone through the spine and over the head. These channels are said to be the first formed when we are growing as fetuses, so they hold deep resources of power. The Ren mai contains points with important connections to several of the Chinese medicine organs, including all four of the Fire ones—the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and Triple Burner.
Acupressure Points
All the points listed below lie on the midline of abdomen/chest, in line with the belly button. These points are said to be where the qi of the corresponding organs gather and concentrate on the surface of the body.
Ren 4: Guan Yuan, Origin Gate
Linked with the Small Intestine
Located four fingers’ breadth below the belly button (lay your hand flat horizontally under your belly button)
This is in the realm of the lower dantian. It is a point of profound restoration, fortifying our deep reserves in the case of adrenal fatigue, infertility, long-term weakness, frailty, poor digestion due to sickness or weakness, low back & leg joint pain in the middle-aged to elderly. It also assists with urinary issues.
To activate this point, apply deep pressure with the pad of your thumb or a knuckle.
Ren 5: Shi Men, Stone Gate
Linked with the Triple Burner
Located about three fingers’ breadth below the belly button
Associated with the Triple Burner, which is “in charge of drainage and water passages” in the body, this point helps regulate fluid circulation. It can assist with urinary issues, edema, and digestive issues like diarrhea. It can be used as a local point for pain or bloating of the lower abdomen. It can also be used for regulating menstruation.
To activate this point, apply deep pressure with the pad of your thumb or a knuckle.
Ren 14: Ju Que, Great Gateway
Linked with the Heart
Located eight fingers’ breadth above the belly button (lay both your hands flat side by side horizontally above your belly button)
This is a calming point, helping to relieve heart pain, mania, and intense emotions. It descends the qi of the chest and stomach, alleviating coughing and acid reflux.
To activate this point, apply moderate pressure with the pad of your thumb or a knuckle.
Ren 17: Shan Zhong, Chest Center
Linked with the Pericardium
Located over the sternum, in the fourth rib space (approximately in line with the nipples)
This is in the realm of the middle dantian, and it is considered a “sea of qi”—it has a strong effect on the qi of the chest, assisting the Lung and Heart in moving qi and blood. This may help relieve chest pain, coughing, and asthma. I use this point often for those with shortness of breath, anxiety, and/or pressure in the chest.
Simply laying a palm over this point may be helpful if you wish to activate it on yourself. You can also circle your hand over it in a clockwise direction (to draw energy to the area) and/or counterclockwise (to disperse energy from the area).
Stay tuned for next week’s post on acupressure points on the Heart and Small Intestine meridians themselves to support these organs.
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