Chest and Abdominal Acupressure Points for Health

The application of chest and abdominal acupoints primarily focuses on points along the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai) on the midline of the chest and abdomen. This midline is divided into three sections: the chest corresponds to the Upper Jiao, including the heart and lungs; the upper abdomen corresponds to the Middle Jiao, including the spleen and stomach; the lower abdomen corresponds to the Lower Jiao, including the liver and kidneys.

Patients with chronic diseases often experience poor appetite or irregular bowel movements, leading to a weakened body and impaired qi and blood over time. Based on these symptoms, treatment involves the Upper, Middle, and Lower Jiao regions of the chest and abdomen. Therefore, the chest point CV17 (Shanzhong) is selected; the upper abdominal points CV14 (Juque) and CV12 (Zhongwan); and the lower abdominal points CV6 (Qihai) and CV4 (Guanyuan). These points serve to tonify qi, calm the spirit, regulate gastrointestinal function, and strengthen the kidneys while promoting the reception of qi. Of course, these are only chest and abdominal points and should be combined with other relevant acupoints. For regulating the stomach and intestines, ST25 (Tianshu) is added. For soothing the liver and relieving stagnation, LR14 (Qimen) is added.

For women's menstrual disorders, the lower abdominal points CV6 (Qihai) and CV4 (Guanyuan) are used. ST25 (Tianshu) can also treat menstrual issues. For heavy menstrual bleeding, LR13 (Zhangmen) is selected. For scanty menstruation, LR14 (Qimen) is used. For excessive vaginal discharge, GB26 (Daimai) is applied.

References

Deadman, P., Al-Khafaji, M., & Baker, K. (2007). A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
Maciocia, G. (2015). The Foundations of Chinese Medicine (3rd ed.). Elsevier.
World Health Organization. (2008). WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations. WHO Press.