7 Acupoints for Mental Balancing

In today’s world, achieving mental balance can feel like a constant struggle. Stress, anxiety, and emotional ups and downs often leave us feeling out of sync. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a holistic approach to restoring calm and harmony in its many forms.

Acupuncture has been used for centuries to promote physical and mental well-being. While this complementary treatment shouldn’t replace working with a professional mental healthcare worker, there are specific acupoints believed to have positive effects on mental wellness. These acupoints, when stimulated, are thought to help calm the mind, reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, promote emotional balance, and enhance cognitive function.

Here we present 7 key acupoints that can be used at home in the form of acupressure. Unlike acupuncture, which uses needles, acupressure is non-invasive and easy to practice on your own.

Yintang (M-HN-3)

Located between the eyebrows, in the center of the forehead, Yintang is often referred to as the “third eye” point. It helps calm the mind, relieve stress, and promote clarity of thought.

Baihui (GV20)
“Hundred Convergences”

Located at the top of the head, Baihui is considered the meeting point of all the yang meridians. Stimulating this point is believed to enhance mental clarity, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional balance.

Shenmen (HT7)

“Spirit Gate”

Found on the wrist crease, on the radial side of the little finger, Shenmen is known as the “Spirit Gate” point. It is believed to calm the mind, relieve insomnia, and reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.

Nei Guan (PC-6)
“Inner Gate”

Located on the inner forearm, two finger widths above the wrist crease between the tendons, Nei Guan is commonly used for calming the mind and reducing stress. It is believed to relieve anxiety, insomnia, and palpitations.

Hegu (LI-4)
“Joining Valley”

Found in the webbing between the thumb and index finger, Hegu is a well-known acupoint for overall well-being. It is believed to reduce stress, relieve headaches, and promote a sense of calmness.

Shanzhong (CV-17)
“Chest Center”

Located at the center of the sternum, Shanzhong is believed to help regulate emotions, calm the mind and promote inner peace.

Jianjing (GB-21)
“Shoulder Well”

Found at the highest point of the shoulder muscle, midway between the base of the neck and the tip of the shoulder. Stimulating GB 21 is believed to help alleviate neck and shoulder pain, reduce headaches, release emotional stress and tension, and promote a sense of relaxation.

How to Perform Acupressure

Locate the Acupoint. Find the exact location of the point you want to stimulate.

Get Comfortable. Sit or lie in a relaxed position. Take a few deep breaths to calm your mind and body.

Apply Gentle Pressure. Use your thumb, index finger, or knuckle to press firmly but comfortably on the acupoint. Avoid causing pain—aim for a sensation of mild pressure or warmth.

Massage the Point. Use small, circular motions or hold steady pressure for 1-3 minutes. Pay attention to your breathing and focus on relaxation.

Repeat as Needed. Stimulate the point once or twice daily, or whenever you feel tension or imbalance.

Tips:

• Drink water after the session to help your body flush toxins.
• Avoid acupressure on broken skin, open wounds, or during pregnancy without consulting a TCM practitioner.
• Acupressure is a simple way to reconnect with your body and enhance your well-being, whether at home, at work, or on the go.