Acupressure for energy, sleep, brain function

Acupressure provides many of the same benefits of acupuncture, but uses massage-like actions instead of needles to stimulate the points.

An excellent and easy point you can use at home to start learning acupressure is called Du 20, or Baihui(百会).

What does it do?

Stimulating Du 20 has many benefits:

• Soothes an overactive mind and promotes restful sleep

• Relieves headaches, migraines, vertigo

• Helps with hair loss

• Increases mental clarity and relieves brain fog

• Lifts Qi in the body - this point is used by acupuncturists to help with any condition involving sinking or sagging. This includes sagging skin from aging, incontinence, heavy menstruation, diarrhea, organ prolapse, and threatened miscarriage.

How to find it:

Du 20 is located at the very top of the head on the midline of the body. The easiest way to find it is to find the top point of each ear (the apex) and draw a line vertically up to meet at the top and middle of the head where your fingers meet.

How do I use it?

You can use your fingers or make a fist to rub the point in small circles or gently tap on the point for 1-2 minutes. Use this point several times a day, and right before bed for the best results.

Caution

Please consult an acupuncturist before using this point if you’re prone to migraines, dizziness or seizures. Also consult a healthcare provider if you have a serious or chronic condition.

Background

Du 20 is known as the "hundred convergences" point, where the six Yang channels of the body, and the Governing Vessel intersect. It's considered the human connection to heaven, and very important for conditions affecting the head and sensory organs.