Key Acupressure Points for Anxiety
Press these points daily to calm your nervous system — ancient wisdom in your own hands.
What is Acupressure?
Acupressure is a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique that applies pressure to specific points on the body (acupoints) to release blocked qi and restore balance. Unlike acupuncture (which uses needles), acupressure can be self-administered anywhere, anytime — making it ideal for managing anxiety in real-time.
TCM theory holds that anxiety is caused by disrupted flow of qi through specific meridians, particularly the heart, pericardium, and liver channels. Stimulating key points along these channels with firm, steady pressure helps regulate the nervous system and calm the shen (spirit).
5 Essential Anxiety Points
An Mian (EX-HN1) — Peaceful Sleep
Location: Base of skull, in the two hollows on either side of the spine, about 2 inches below the base of the skull.
How: Press both sides simultaneously with thumbs or fingers. Hold for 1-2 minutes with steady pressure while breathing deeply.
Best for: Racing mind at night, insomnia, anxiety-induced restlessness.
Neiguan (PC6) — Inner Gate
Location: Inner wrist, 2 thumb-widths (about 3 fingers) up from the wrist crease, between the two tendons.
How: Press with thumb, applying firm pressure in a circular motion. 30-60 seconds per wrist.
Best for: Acute anxiety, panic, nausea from stress, heart palpitations.
Shen Men (HT7) — Spirit Gate
Location: Wrist crease, on the outer side (pinky finger side), in the hollow at the end of the tendon.
How: Press and hold with thumb. Can combine with PC6 for stronger effect.
Best for: Heart anxiety, emotional upset, nervous system regulation.
Yintang (EX-HN3) — Third Eye Point
Location: Between the eyebrows, in the indentation where the nose bridge meets the forehead.
How: Gentle circular massage with fingertip. 1-2 minutes.
Best for: Mental tension, overthinking, worry, anxiety before events.
LV3 (Taichong) — Great Rising
Location: Top of foot, in the hollow between the big toe and second toe, about 2 inches above where the bones meet.
How: Press firmly with thumb, hold for 30-60 seconds. Both feet.
Best for: Liver qi stagnation (frustration, irritability, anger), stress-related anxiety.
Daily Practice Tip
Press these 5 points for 2-3 minutes each, twice daily (morning and evening), as a preventive maintenance practice. During acute anxiety, press An Mian and Neiguan for immediate relief. Consistency is key — the more you stimulate these points, the more responsive they become.