12-05-2025
Insomnia Relief Without Medication? Use This Acupoint for Better Sleep
Insomnia is more than a source of frustration—it can gradually undermine our health. Chronic sleep issues are associated with a range of problems, including high blood pressure, weakened immunity, mood swings, and memory difficulties. As we age, sleep disruptions become more frequent.
Many experts recommend exploring
From Classical Texts to Clinical Relevance
Shen Men was first recorded in 'Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing,' the oldest surviving text on acupuncture and moxibustion
(a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort)
, written between 256 and 283 C.E. This point is known as a Yuan-Source point, meaning it's a key location where our inherited, original
These points are especially important because they reflect the energetic health of their related organ systems. In the case of Shen Men, that organ is the heart—not just the physical organ—but also the emotional and mental functions associated with it in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
Shen Men plays a central role in addressing emotional disturbances like anxiety and depression, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, and, in extreme cases, nausea. Shen Men is also known to improve mental clarity. In today's world, it's most often used to treat insomnia that stems from stress, overthinking, and emotional turmoil—when your body is exhausted but your mind won't turn off.
Modern Studies Confirm the Mind-Body Connection
Modern research is finding what traditional medicine has known for centuries: Shen Men profoundly influences the mind and body.
One clinical
Another
How to Locate and Activate Shen Men
You'll find Shen Men on the inner side of your wrist. To locate it, hold your palm face-up and find the prominent tendons that help flex your hand. Then, trace downwards along your pinky finger towards the inner wrist crease. You'll feel a slight dip next to the bone of your hand. This point will feel sore, tender, or numb when you press it.
How to Activate the Spirit Gate
Shen Men responds well to simple, gentle techniques, best applied before bedtime:
Pressure technique:
Apply firm pressure for 3–5 seconds, release for 3 seconds, and repeat this cycle for three to five minutes on each wrist.
Massage:
Using your thumb or index finger, massage in small, slow circles for three to five minutes per side.
Herbal Patch:
For overnight stimulation, consider an herbal patch placed directly over the point.
Advanced techniques such as acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion can enhance the therapeutic effects. These should only be performed by a trained TCM practitioner.
Precautions
Avoid manually stimulating the Shen Men acupoint if you have any injuries in the wrist area. Instead, consider using heat therapy. You can gently warm the acupoint by using a hairdryer on a low setting for 10 to 15 minutes on each wrist. If you choose to use herbal patches, read the ingredient list carefully to avoid products with harsh synthetic ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.
End Your Day With Intention
Incorporating Shen Men stimulation into your nighttime routine can be an effective way to unwind. Just a few minutes of mindful touch can help calm your mind and prepare it for restful sleep. Whether you focus on the point itself or create a calming ritual around it, Shen Men serves as a gentle and effective pathway to achieving deeper, more peaceful rest.
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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
