Not all cures are easy and accessible at any time, but this remedy truly is. Whether you’re in the middle of a hectic workday or winding down before bed, incorporating this one practice can put you at ease. One simple yet powerful technique to regain calm and balance is Qigong tapping. This practice, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, involves gently tapping or massaging specific acupuncture points to regulate energy flow, ease tension, and bring a sense of peace. Here’s how you can use Qigong tapping to soothe stress and anxiety anytime, anywhere.

What is Qigong Tapping?

Qigong tapping is a technique that involves rhythmic tapping on specific energy points along the body's meridians. This method helps release blocked energy, enhance circulation, and stimulate the nervous system to promote relaxation. By tapping on these acupressure points, you can quickly shift your state of mind and body from tension to ease.

Key Points to Tap

Ren 17 – Tan Zhong – Center of the Chest

Guards and soothes the heart
Located at the center of the chest, Ren 17 is an influential point for both the heart and lungs. It is directly linked to emotional well-being and can be particularly effective in moments of heightened stress or anxiety.

By tapping or massaging this point, you can:

• Relieve tightness in the chest

• Reduce emotional agitation

• Support deeper breathing
  
  

For added relaxation, try massaging a drop of lavender oil into the area, then place one or both palms over the point with gentle pressure to create a calming effect.

Heart 7 – Shen Men – Spirit Gate

Restores energy and calms an anxious heart
Heart 7 is found on the inner wrist, at the crease where the hand meets the wrist. This point is especially beneficial when the heart feels weary, restless, or anxious. Tapping or gently massaging this area can:

• Ease palpitations caused by stress

• Promote emotional balance

• Support restful sleep

DU 20 – Bai Hui

Soothes the mind and the psyche
Located at the top of the head, DU 20 is the most influential point for the skull and brain. To find it, trace a line from the highest point of your ears to the very top of your head. You may notice a slight mound or dip where your finger naturally rests.

As its name suggests, Bai Hui, or "One Hundred Convergences," is where multiple meridians meet, making it a powerful point for mental clarity and relaxation. Tapping or massaging this spot can:

• Relieve headaches

• Regulate brain activity

• Calm the shen (spirit), soothing the mind and emotions

B2 – Anmian

Promotes deep relaxation and supports sleep
Located near the base of the skull, just behind the earlobe, Anmian is often used to promote deep relaxation and relieve insomnia. This point is particularly helpful for quieting an overactive mind and easing tension.

By tapping or gently pressing here, you can:

• Calm an overactive mind

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Improve sleep quality

How to Practice Qigong Tapping

1. Find a quiet moment – Whether you're at your desk, in bed, or taking a break, set aside a few minutes to focus on your breath and body.

2. Use gentle but firm tapping – With your fingertips or knuckles, tap each point for about 30 seconds to a minute. If preferred, you can also massage in small circles.

3. Breathe deeply – Inhale through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth while tapping to enhance relaxation.

4. Set an intention – Whether it’s to release stress, regain focus, or cultivate calm, setting an intention can amplify the effects of the practice.

Qigong tapping is a quick and accessible tool for managing stress and anxiety throughout the day. By stimulating these key energy points, you can bring your body and mind back to a state of balance with just a few minutes of practice. Next time you feel tension rising, take a moment to tap into your body’s natural ability to heal and relax.

To take your relaxation to the next level, visit ORA in NYC for expert acupuncture and holistic treatments designed to restore balance and well-being.