Photo by Pedro Figueras

In this challenging and tender season of life, the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides an invaluable framework to finding balance within even the harshest climates. A core tenant of TCM is living in accordance with the seasons. We currently find ourselves in the Metal (Autumn) season during a Metal year (Metal Rat). 

Metal is the element associated with the Lungs and Large Intestine and the corresponding emotional themes of grief and letting go.  Given this context, it seems no coincidence that we are experiencing a global respiratory pandemic. Many of us find ourselves processing a lot of grief and letting go of systems and ways of being that no longer serve us. Like all transitions, this can come with extreme difficulty and oftentimes we face much resistance within ourselves and in the world around us.

One way to create more ease in the process of letting go and grieving is to use corresponding acupuncture points along the metal meridians. In addition, according to Chinese Medicine theory, the Lungs control our immune system. They are the first line of defense when any pathogen enters the body. During the metal season, we often see an uptick in allergies and respiratory issues. As we get closer to cold and flu season, focusing on caring for our lungs is imperative. One of my favorite points for this is Lung 7. 

Lung 7 or Lièquē 列缺 as it’s known in Mandarin, is one of the most commonly used acupuncture points because of its dynamic nature and many functions. Translated to English it means Broken Sequence and it has been named one of the most vital acupuncture points in ancient medical texts. 

Uses for Lung 7

  • Opens the chest
  • Treats issues in the head & neck
  • Phlegm & mucus in the upper part of the body 
  • Headaches 
  • Treats first signs of cold/flu
  • Regulates the movement of fluids throughout the body
  • Activates the lung channel and relieves pain
  • Gynecological Issues

Locating Lung 7

The location for Lung 7 is found just proximal (closer to the torso) to the styloid process of the radius bone (the bone in your forearm which ends closest to your thumb).  

A simple way to find this is by joining your hands between the thumb and forefinger.  Your index finger should be resting along the radius bone.  The tip of your index finger will come to rest in a small notch between two tendons which lie on top of the styloid process.  

Directions

Once the point is located you can use a finger to massage it in a gentle, circular motion. Oftentimes, this point can be slightly tender. To strengthen the lungs, it’s highly encouraged to pair this acupressure technique with breathwork. Do 2-3 rounds of breath through the nose using a long smooth inhale and making a point to find a slightly longer smooth exhale. 

Aromatherapy bonus: eucalyptus, peppermint, lemon, tea tree can be put in a carrier oil (like jojoba or grapeseed oil) and lightly massaged into the point for added benefits.

Allyson Schurtz, L.Ac., Mend Acupuncturist
Allyson is extremely passionate about Chinese Medicine and she views it as an integral addition to our modern healthcare system. Her background in integrative healthcare settings provides an important framework for her approach to patient care.