Wellness with Acupressure - Immunity, Energy, GI Health

Acupuncture Point ST-36 (Zusanli)

If you ever had acupuncture, chances are that your acupuncturist needled this point, which is also called "longevity point". 
Often, when needle is inserted at ST-36, the feeling you may experience is one  of  dull ache and heaviness.
It is a very powerful point that can have effect on your immune system, digestion and even mood.  

Location
This point is located on the lateral side on the front of the lower leg, about hand-width below the knee crease.
How to Apply Acupressure

• The middle finger is the strongest and best suited to apply acupressure
• Hold the point steadily with direct pressure and at 90 degrees angle from the surface of the skin for 15-30 seconds
• Apply and release finger gradually because it allows the tissue to respond and promote healing
• After repeated acupressure applications, you may feel pulse at the point, which is a good sign - it means that the circulation has increased

Function
ST-36 is the 36th point on the Stomach meridian.  Traditionally it is used for:

• GI conditions: nausea, epigastric pain, vomiting, belching, hiccup, distention and pain in the abdomen, poor appetite, difficult ingestion, diarrhea, flatulency 
• Low energy, fatigue, diminished immunity
• Dizziness, hypertension, palpitations
• Depression, manic behavior
• Febrile diseases, fever,  frontal headaches, chest pain
• Breast pain, breast abscess
• Knee pain, thigh pain, lumbar pain

Research Findings 

Acupuncture stimulation of ST-36  has effect on vagus nerve. Vagus nerve is a cranial nerve that innervates viscera, especially digestive organs, which may explain why this point is used  for digestive issues. 

ST-36 is an Anti-Inflammatory point!
Another important function of vagus nerve is regulation of pathologic inflammatory reactions, thus acting as a bridge between neural and immune system.  Chronic inflammation is at the root of many health conditions: diabetes, digestive issues, fatigue, depression.. No wonder it is called  "longevity point"!

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