Breathe Deeply: Unlock Lung Health with Acupressure Points LU 1 & LU 2
With the arrival of autumn, it’s recommended to turn our focus inward and pay attention to the lungs - the organ system most vulnerable to seasonal dryness and wind, according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Supporting your Lung Qi is your first defense against seasonal viruses and low energy..
Two powerful acupressure points, Lung 1(Zhōng Fǔ) and Lung 2(Yún Mén), help you harness this energy, right in the comfort of our home. These points are located on the front of your upper chest, making them accessible for daily practice.
How to Locate Lung 1 and Lung 2:
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Lung 1 (Zhōng Fǔ - Central Treasury): To find this point, first locate the space where your second rib meets your breastbone (sternum). Move outward approximately two finger widths (from the center of your body) to find a tender spot. This is Lung 1.
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Lung 2 (Yún Mén - Cloud Gate): From Lung 1, move outward along the underside of your clavicle (collarbone) by about two more finger widths. You will find a depression just below the clavicle, between the main chest muscles. This is Lung 2.
Benefits of Stimulating Lung 1 & Lung 2
These points are the first on the Lung meridian, making them essential for gathering and regulating Qi and Wei (Defensive) Qi.
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Release Exterior Pathogens: In TCM, colds and flu are considered "external pathogens." Stimulating LU 1 and LU 2 helps to release the exterior, alleviating symptoms like cough, chest congestion, chills, and a sore throat at their very first stages.
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Regulate Lung Qi: These points are masters of descending Lung Qi. This is crucial for relieving coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, and for promoting deep, effortless breathing.
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Boost Immune Function: By strengthening Wei Qi, your protective energy, these points act as a shield. Regular massage can help fortify your immune system, making you more resilient to seasonal illnesses.
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Ease Emotional Congestion: The Lungs are associated with grief and sadness. Tension held in the chest can be a physical manifestation of these emotions. Applying acupressure to this area can help release pent-up emotions, create a sense of openness, and alleviate feelings of melancholy.
How to Use LU 1 & LU 2 for Self-Care
You can easily incorporate these points into your morning routine or use them at the first sign of a cold.
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Sit or lie down comfortably. Take a few deep, calming breaths.
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Use the tips of your fingers (index and middle fingers work well) to apply firm but gentle pressure to both LU 1 and LU 2 points on either side of your chest.
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Use a small, circular massaging motion for 1-2 minutes on each point. Focus on breathing deeply into the areas you are pressing.
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For deeper emotional release or congestion, you can hold steady pressure on the points while visualizing tension melting away with each exhale.
Why It Works: The Theory Behind the Points
As the first points on the Lung meridian, LU 1 and LU 2 are where Qi is gathered and mobilized. LU 1, in particular, is the Front-Mu point of the Lungs, meaning it has a direct and powerful connection to the organ itself. By stimulating these gateways, you send a powerful signal to the entire Lung system to function optimally, clearing blockages and ensuring the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body.
By spending just a few minutes each day on these points, you can support your respiratory health, strengthen your immunity, and breathe a little easier all season long.
