If you’ve spent more than a few hours on your laptop, you are familiar with that uncomfortable feeling in your wrists that no amount of rubbing or shaking seems to alleviate. Our wrists are crucial for many enjoyable activities, from fishing and yoga to gardening and carpentry, making them particularly vulnerable to injury.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury or simply looking to strengthen your wrists while enjoying additional holistic benefits, Yang Pool (Yang Chi, TE4) is an acupoint worth exploring.
An Ancient Remedy with Modern Applications
Yang Chi was first documented in the classic TCM text “Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot),” an essential part of the “Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic),” which provides a theoretical foundation for acupuncture therapy. Over centuries, practitioners have used Yang Chi to address various health concerns as this acupoint is classified as a Yuan-Source acupoint. It means it plays a vital role in regulating the flow of vital energy known as qi in the meridian (energy pathway). Yang Chi, as its name suggests, regulates the yang energy within the Triple Energizer and the entire body system.This property allows it to address cold sensations in the hands and feet, a condition often experienced by women and those living in colder climates. Such sensations are typically caused by poor circulation of yang energy, which is often likened to the sun’s warmth in the body. Additionally, Yang Chi can alleviate thirst associated with conditions like diabetes, making it effective for those suffering from this symptom. Its location also makes it a go-to point for relieving wrist pain.
The Intersection of TCM and Modern Medicine
It’s no surprise to TCM practitioners that modern research supports the use of Yang Chi to treat symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. In one study, researchers investigated the effects of electroacupuncture on patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, with Yang Chi was as one of the six acupoints used.The results showed a remarkable improvement rate of 96.7 percent, with significant increases in nerve conduction speed and reduced nerve swelling after treatment. This suggests that electroacupuncture, including the use of Yang Chi, can be an effective treatment for alleviating carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.
What’s particularly fascinating is that recent research is beginning to uncover Yang Chi’s broader therapeutic potential, including its role in cancer care. Another study focused on the effects of saam acupuncture, also known as the Korean Four Needle technique, on the immune system in cancer patients, where Yang Chi was included among the five acupoints used. After treatment, there was a significant increase in specific immune cells, such as CD3+ and CD8+, along with a notable decrease in fatigue levels. This indicates that Yang Chi, along with other carefully chosen acupoints may help boost immunity and reduce fatigue in cancer patients, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
How to Locate and Stimulate Yang Chi
To locate Yang Chi, look at the back of your wrist where it naturally bends. You’ll notice a crease running horizontally. The acupoint is found in a small dip next to the tendon of the muscle responsible for extending your fingers.Another way to find it is to place a finger between your ring and pinky fingers and slide it down toward the wrist until you feel a slight indentation. This spot may feel tender to the touch, which can indicate you’ve found the right location.
Activating Yang Chi is easy:
- Apply firm pressure for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each wrist.
- Massage the point in circular motions using your thumb or index finger for one to three minutes per side.
- For extended benefits, use an herbal patch overnight.
- Consider professional treatments such as acupuncture or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) for deeper effects.
Precautions When Using Yang Chi
Avoid pressing this acupoint if you have an injury in the wrist area, as excessive stimulation could worsen the condition. If using herbal patches, ensure they do not contain harsh chemicals that could irritate the skin.A Balanced Approach to Wellness
A common misconception is that yang energy is “good” while yin energy is “bad.” However, TCM emphasizes a balance between the two forces. Just as we enjoy the sun when its warmth is pleasant but avoid scorching heat, regulating yang energy is essential for optimal health.Yang Chi is a helpful acupoint for maintaining this balance—energizing the body without overheating it. Whether you’re seeking relief from wrist pain, improved circulation, or support for overall vitality, Yang Chi is a powerful tool in your self-care routine. Give it a try and see how it benefits you.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate. To submit an opinion piece, please follow these guidelines and submit through our form here.
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