If you have trouble falling asleep, then you may have tried everything under the sun to try to fix that. But has it ever occurred to you that you can use acupressure for sleep? It might be surprising for those who don’t know much about this ancient Chinese non-medical treatment, but for those who do, you may already have an idea about the pressure points for sleep.
Acupressure is similar to acupuncture in which specific points (called acupoints) in the body are used to treat the person of certain ailments. The key difference between both is that pressure is applied to those points in acupressure, while in acupuncture, ultra-fine needles are inserted through the skin to target those points.
There is another technique called tapping. It’s also known as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), where you tap on specific acupoints on the body while focusing on a particular issue or emotion with the idea of releasing energy blockages and helping the body and mind feel balanced. Similar to acupressure, tapping is also a simple, quick, and effective way to reduce stress, anxiety, and even physical discomfort by combining gentle tapping with positive affirmations.
Acupressure is a natural and effective way to improve your quality of sleep and aid relaxation, and unlike acupuncture, you can do it yourself at any time. They are highly effective in releasing tension, reducing stress, and balancing the flow of energy in the body. They can lead to a quieter mind and a more peaceful transition to sleep.
Whether you focus on points such as Anmian to calm the mind or Shenmen to reduce anxiety, acupressure offers the best approach to treating sleep problems. In this blog, we will take you through 10 acupressure points for sleep, their benefits, and more about tapping to help you achieve restful sleep.
Table of Contents
- Acupressure For Sleep: Which Pressure Points Help You Sleep?
- Where To Tap To Fall Asleep? Using The Tapping Technique For Sleep
- Expert’s Advice
- The Final Say
- FAQs
- References
Acupressure For Sleep: Which Pressure Points Help You Sleep?
Locate the following pressure points on your body and follow these simple steps to promote better sleep:
- Use your thumb, finger, or knuckle to apply gentle and steady pressure to the point.
- Hold the pressure for 15-30 seconds and gradually increase the intensity if comfortable.
- You can also use small circular motions to add effect.
- Focus on your breathing and remain relaxed throughout the process.
- Repeat the pressure on both sides of the body if necessary.
1. Heart 7 (HT7) - Shenmen
This hand pressure point for sleep is known as the "Spirit Gate", signifying its role in calming the mind and spirit.
Location: On the wrist, on the crease, towards the ulnar side, in the depression lateral to the tendons of m. flexor carpi ulnaris.
HT7 is known for calming the mind, reducing anxiety, and promoting sleep. It is particularly effective for insomnia caused by emotional disorders or heart problems.
Also Read: Acupressure Points For Heart Health — Simple TLC For Your Heart
2. Spleen 6 (SP6) - Sanyinjiao
This foot pressure point for sleep represents the intersection of the three yin channels of the foot, which is why it’s also called the ‘Three Yin Intersection’.
Location: Four fingers' width above the inner ankle bone, on the back edge of the tibia.
SP6 is beneficial for insomnia because it harmonises the spleen and stomach and calms the mind. It is also used for stress relief and digestive problems that can disrupt sleep.
3. Kidney 6 (KI6) - Zhaohai
The name of this point, ‘Shining Sea’, reflects its deep, nourishing properties, similar to the vastness of the sea.
Location: Under the inner ankle bone, in the hollow just below the top of the ankle.
KI6 is used to nourish kidney yin (yin is the passive, solid, and cold force of life), which is essential for calming the mind and promoting deep, restorative sleep. It is particularly effective for sleep disorders related to yin deficiency.
Also Read: 10 Yoga Positions For Knee Pain & 8 Acupressure Points For Quick Relief
4. Anmian - Peaceful Sleep Point
This point literally translates as ‘Peaceful Sleep’, which emphasises its specific use for sleep problems.
Location: Behind the ear, midway between GB20 (Fengchi) and SJ17 (Yifeng).
Anmian is not located on the traditional meridian but is widely used for its ability to induce a state of calm and facilitate sleep. It is excellent for insomnia and stress-related sleep disorders.
5. Pericardium 6 (PC6) - Neiguan
This point is named ‘Inner Pass’ for its role in influencing internal energy pathways.
Location: Three finger widths above the crease of the wrist, between the palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis tendons.
PC6 is known for its ability to open the chest, calm the heart and calm the mind, making it beneficial for those whose sleep is disturbed by anxiety or emotional stress.
Also Read: Struggling to Breathe? Check Out These 7 Effective Acupressure Points for Breathing Difficulties
6. Gallbladder 13 (GB13) - Benshen
Its other name, the ‘Root of the Spirit’ point, emphasises its role in influencing the mind and spirit.
Location: On the head, one finger's width above the hairline, in line with the pupil when viewed straight on.
GB13 is used to clear the mind and relieve stress and anxiety. It benefits those disturbed by excessive thinking or mental restlessness, promoting a calm state conducive to sleep.
7. Governing Vessel 24 (DU24) - Shenting
Its other name, ‘Spirit Court’, reflects the profound influence of this point on mental and emotional well-being.
Location: On the forehead, 0.5 cm above the hairline, directly in line with the centre between the eyebrows.
DU24 is known to calm the spirit, relieve anxiety and address depression. It is particularly useful for insomnia associated with stress, anxiety or emotional disorders, helping to pave the way for restful sleep.
Also Read: 6 Face Pressure Points For Glowing Skin & Anti-Ageing Effects Naturally!
8. Liver 3 (LR3) – Tai Chong
It’s also named the ‘Great Surge’, reflecting this point's role in ensuring the smooth flow of Qi and blood in the body, quite like a surging river that nourishes the Earth.
Location: On the foot, between the first and second toes, about two finger widths from the webbing.
LR3 is key to alleviating stress and anger, regulating the flow of Qi and calming the liver. Its use is essential for solving sleep problems related to stress, irritability and headaches. Harmonizing Liver Qi promotes emotional balance and calmness and allows for more restful sleep.
9. Small intestine 11 (SI11) - Tianzong
Its other name, the ‘Heavenly Gathering’, suggests a point of convergence where Qi gathers, suggesting its role in harmonising the flow of Qi in the body.
Location: In the centre of the scapula, in a sensitive spot in the muscle area.
SI11 is known for releasing tension in the shoulders and neck, areas commonly affected by stress and strain. Removing this physical tension indirectly promotes better sleep by reducing discomfort that can interfere with falling asleep and maintaining a restful state.
Also Read: 5 Pressure Points For Increasing Height: Effect Of Acupressure & Acupuncture On Height!
10. Yin Tang (M-HN-3)
Known as the ‘Hall of Impression’, this point is revered for its calming and centring effects on the mind.
Location: Midway between the eyebrows, Yin Tang is easily accessible and often used for its immediate calming effect.
Yin Tang is particularly effective in calming the mind, reducing anxiety, and alleviating stress-related symptoms that can disrupt sleep.
Where To Tap To Fall Asleep? Using The Tapping Technique For Sleep
Tapping is a self-care technique that draws on acupressure and TCM energy medicine to help release the stress, pain, and anxious thoughts that keep you up at night. The exercise is easy: gently tap your fingertips on key energy points—top of your head, eyebrows, sides of your eyes, under your eyes, nose, chin, collarbone, and under your arms. As you tap, repeat a positive affirmation to release stress and calm your mind. It’s quick, effective, and leaves you feeling lighter and more centred!
Here's how to do it:
1. Identify your problem and create a positive affirmation phrase to solve it. For example, "Even when I feel stressed, I completely accept myself.”
2. Use the right hand's index finger or fingertips to tap the left hand's outer part. Tap long enough to say your problem and affirmation phrase three times. Repeat using the left fingertips to tap the outer right hand.
3. Tap other energy points in the following order:
- Eyebrows (Near the nose where the eyebrows start.)
- Side of the eyes (On the bone bordering the outer corner of the eye.)
- Area under the eyes (on the bone about 1 inch below the pupil.)
- Under my nose
- Chin (Midway between the bottom lip and the bottom of the chin.)
- Clavicle
- Armpits
- Top of the head
Also Read: 10 Best Acupressure Points For Weight Loss And Their Function!
Expert’s Advice
Acupressure can be a great way to relax your body and mind and help improve your sleep quality. I suggest that, instead of only relying on acupressure, you combine it with other healthy habits, such as drinking brain-relaxing drinks such as chamomile tea, turmeric milk, hibiscus tea, oolong tea, etc., taking a balanced diet and doing regular exercise. By making small changes, you can effectively manage sleep disorders and improve overall well-being.
Health Expert
Lavina Chauhan
The Final Say
There could be a number of factors that contribute to the quality of your sleep, and acupressure can be a great way to achieve better sleep without resorting to expensive treatments or pills. You can sleep better and enjoy a more energetic life by putting pressure on the points listed above. You can do it yourself or even ask a friend to help you out, especially for the points you can reach.
FAQs
1. Can pressure points improve sleep?
Yes, pressure points can help improve sleep by calming your mind, reducing your stress levels, and promoting relaxation. Targeting specific acupressure points (the ones shared in this blog) can enhance sleep quality and ease insomnia.
2. How do I use tapping to fall asleep?
To fall asleep, tap on key points like the top of your head, eyebrows, under your eyes, and collarbone. These areas help release tension and calm the mind for a peaceful night's sleep.
References
- https://aihcp.net/2023/06/29/how-emotional-freedom-technique-eft-for-better-sleep/#:~:text=EFT%20tapping%20points%20and%20techniques%20for%20sleep&text=The%20main%20tapping%20points%20include,while%20stating%20your%20chosen%20affirmation.
- https://www.resmed.co.in/blogs/5-acupressure-points-for-sleep
- https://www.morningsideacupuncturenyc.com/blog/best-acupuncture-points-for-sleep
- https://wildtreewellness.com/tapping-into-sleep/
- https://www.womenshealthnetwork.com/fatigue-and-insomnia/tapping-for-stress-relief-insomnia/
About ToneOp Fit
ToneOp Fit is a platform dedicated to improving and maintaining good health through a comprehensive range of goal-oriented health plans with up to 3 Coach support. With a range of Weight Management, Medical Condition, Detox Plans, and Face Yoga Plans, the app also provides premium health trackers, recipes and health content. Get customised diet, fitness, naturopathy & yoga plans and transform yourself with ToneOp.
