Acupuncture for Mental Health: 5 Key Acupoints and Treatment Plan

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and stress affect millions of people worldwide. While therapy and medication are common treatments, alternative therapies like acupuncture have gained recognition for their ability to support emotional well-being. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture works by balancing the body’s energy (Qi) and stimulating the nervous system to promote relaxation and healing.

In this blog, we’ll explore:
✔ How acupuncture benefits mental health
✔ Key acupoints for anxiety, depression, and stress
✔ A general treatment plan for emotional balance

How Acupuncture Supports Mental Health

Acupuncture involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to regulate energy flow. Research suggests it can:

Reduce cortisol (the stress hormone)
Increase serotonin & endorphins (natural mood boosters)
Improve sleep by calming the nervous system
Enhance blood flow to the brain, supporting cognitive function

Studies have shown acupuncture to be effective in managing:

Anxiety & panic disorders
Depression (as a complementary therapy)
Insomnia & stress-related fatigue
PTSD & emotional trauma

5 Key Acupoints for Mental Wellness

Here are some of the most powerful acupuncture points for mental health:

1. Yintang (Third Eye Point) – For Calming the Mind

📍 Location: Between the eyebrows
💡 Benefits: Reduces anxiety, promotes relaxation, and eases insomnia.

2. Shen Men (HT7) – For Emotional Balance

📍 Location: On the wrist crease, in line with the pinky finger
💡 Benefits: Helps with depression, insomnia, and emotional instability.

3. Bai Hui (GV20) – For Clarity & Stress Relief

📍 Location: At the top of the head, midpoint of the ears
💡 Benefits: Enhances mental clarity, relieves stress, and lifts mood.

4. Liver 3 (LV3) – For Anger & Frustration

📍 Location: On the foot, between the big toe and second toe
💡 Benefits: Regulates Liver Qi (linked to anger in TCM) and reduces irritability.

5. Pericardium 6 (PC6) – For Anxiety & Nausea

📍 Location: Two finger-widths above the wrist crease, between tendons
💡 Benefits: Calms anxiety, relieves nausea (common with stress).

General Acupuncture Treatment Plan for Mental Health

A typical acupuncture plan for mental wellness involves:

1. Initial Consultation

A TCM practitioner assesses emotional and physical symptoms.
Pulse and tongue diagnosis may be used to identify imbalances.

2. Frequency of Sessions

Acute Stress/Anxiety: 1-2 sessions per week for 4-6 weeks.
Chronic Depression: 1 session per week for 8-12 weeks.
Maintenance: Monthly sessions for long-term balance.

3. Complementary Therapies

Herbal Medicine (e.g., Xiao Yao San for stress)
Cupping or Gua Sha (for tension release)
Lifestyle & Diet Advice (e.g., avoiding caffeine if anxious)

4. Self-Care Between Sessions

Acupressure: Pressing on HT7, PC6, or Yintang daily.
Breathwork & Meditation: Enhances acupuncture effects.
Gentle Exercise: Tai Chi, Qi Gong, or yoga.

Final Thoughts

Acupuncture offers a holistic, drug-free approach to managing mental health by addressing both the body and mind. While it’s not a replacement for therapy or medication in severe cases, it can be a powerful complementary treatment.

If you're struggling with stress, anxiety, or low mood, consider trying acupuncture alongside other wellness practices. Always seek a licensed acupuncturist for personalized care.

Have you tried acupuncture for mental health? Share your experience in the comments!

7 reasons to try Head Scalp Acupressure Massage

7 reasons to try Head & Scalp Acupressure Massage

An acupressure massage on the head and scalp can provide numerous physical and mental health benefits by stimulating pressure points, improving circulation, and relieving tension. Here’s why you should try it:

1. Relieves Stress & Anxiety

Activates relaxation responses by releasing endorphins (feel-good hormones).
Reduces cortisol levels, helping calm the mind.

2. Improves Blood Circulation

Enhances oxygen and nutrient flow to hair follicles, promoting healthier hair growth.
May help reduce hair thinning and improve scalp health.

3. Reduces Headaches & Migraines

Targets pressure points (like the GV20 or "Baihui" point) to relieve tension headaches.
Eases sinus pressure and eye strain.

4. Boosts Mental Clarity & Focus

Stimulates brain function by increasing blood flow to the head.
Helps with brain fog, fatigue, and concentration issues.

5. Promotes Better Sleep

Calms the nervous system, making it easier to fall asleep.
Great for insomnia or restless nights.

6. Helps with Scalp Conditions

May reduce dandruff, dryness, and itchiness by improving sebum balance.
Encourages detoxification by stimulating lymphatic drainage.

7. Relieves Neck & Shoulder Tension

Many scalp pressure points connect to neck muscles, helping ease stiffness.

Self-acupressure at home

Use your fingertips to apply gentle, circular pressure across your scalp, focusing on areas like:

Temples (for stress relief)
Crown of the head (for relaxation & hair health)
Base of the skull (for neck tension)

Try 5-10 minutes daily for best results!

Or book online with our licensed acupuncturist for a special 1 hour head scalp acupressure massage session

Click here to book the appointment using setmore

Spring Liver Care: Acupuncture & Huangdi Neijing’s Wisdom for Vital Qi energy

"Spring's three months are named 'the unfolding of the new.' Heaven and Earth awaken as one, and all creatures thrive in splendor."

-《The Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon -Huangdi Neijing黄帝内经》

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, among the four seasons, spring corresponds to the Wood element. In the human body, the liver also belongs to the Wood element, making spring qi (vital energy) closely connected to the liver.

During spring, the liver tends to become excessively vigorous as its qi rises and expands. Only by maintaining the liver’s robust physiological functions can the body adapt to the thriving vitality of nature. In short, if one wishes to stay healthy in spring, nurturing the liver becomes especially important.

Here are some methods to protect and nourish the liver during spring:

1. Regulating Emotions (调畅情志)

In TCM, the liver governs free coursing (疏泄) and is said to "favor harmony and despise depression." This is why there is a saying: "Anger injures the liver." As ancient healers observed, "All diseases arise from disordered qi."

Some people are prone to irritability and outbursts of anger, which, over time, disrupt the liver’s normal physiological functions. Conversely, when the liver’s functions are impaired, emotional balance is also affected. Thus, harmonizing emotions is essential for nurturing the liver in spring.

To release pent-up frustration and dispel negative emotions, one may:

Confide in others (倾诉)
Engage in physical exercise (运动)

Maintaining a joyful and calm mood helps the liver qi flow smoothly, ensuring harmonious circulation of qi and blood throughout the body.

2. Healthy Diet (健康饮食)

Spring diets should emphasize spleen-nourishing foods (like dates, yam, and grains) while minimizing astringent foods (e.g., citrus, vinegar). This balances liver-spleen harmony, aligning with seasonal qi flow.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) regards the spleen and stomach as the foundation of postnatal life—the source of qi and blood production. When the spleen and stomach function optimally, the body gains vitality.

Recommended Spring Foods

Prioritize ingredients that fortify the spleen and replenish qi, such as:

Jujube (大枣), yam (山药), lentils (扁豆)
Lean meat, fish, honey, ginger
Barley (大麦), wheat (小麦)

Pair these with fresh green vegetables to promote liver qi circulation (疏肝理气).

3. Adequate Sleep (充足睡眠)

As the folk saying goes:
"Tonic medicine are not as good as food tonics, and food tonics are not as good as sleep tonics."

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasizes that "sleep and diet are the two cornerstones of health preservation" and believes that "those who sleep well and eat well can attain longevity."

Moreover, "When a person lies down to rest, blood returns to the liver." Therefore, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and getting sufficient rest is the best natural remedy for liver care.

TCM prioritizes sleep for liver health, especially between 11 PM–3 AM when liver repair peaks. Staying awake during this time weakens the liver’s self-healing ability. Thus, deep, timely sleep is the ultimate liver tonic.

4. Moderate Exercise (适量运动)

As spring awakens all living things, The Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon advises:
"Take leisurely walks in the courtyard, loosen your hair, and relax your body."

This ancient wisdom encourages gentle movement to harmonize with spring’s rising yang energy, helping the body maintain yin-yang balance—a key to longevity and vitality.

Engaging in seasonally appropriate outdoor activities—such as:

Walking, hiking
Ball games, tai chi

—promotes smooth qi and blood circulation, facilitates detoxification, strengthens the body, and nourishes the liver by soothing emotions. Thus, spring exercise serves both physical and emotional wellness, supporting liver health holistically.

5. Acupressure Taichong (按揉太冲)

Taichong (LV3), the source point of the Liver Meridian, is regarded as the most vital acupressure point for liver nourishment.

Location:
On the dorsum of the foot, in the depression posterior to the junction of the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones.

Method:

Press Taichong on your right foot with the thumb of your left hand.
Apply firm pressure along the groove between the bones, sliding forward and backward 20 times.
Repeat on the left foot using your right thumb.

6. Protecting the Eyes (保护眼睛)

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), "the liver stores blood and opens into the eyes." Thus, eye health is deeply connected to liver function. Excessive visual strain ("prolonged gazing damages blood") can deplete liver blood, leading to eye fatigue and dryness.

For those who use electronic devices for extended periods, it’s essential to:

Rest the eyes periodically (e.g., closing them briefly)
Practice distance gazing (looking at faraway objects)
Perform eye exercises (to improve circulation)

These habits help reduce visual fatigue and, in turn, nourish liver blood—supporting overall liver health.

7. Simply book a Liver-supporting acupuncture treatment for professional TCM Spring liver detox care.

5 Key Acupuncture Points for Fertility: A Holistic Approach to Enhancing Reproductive Health

Acupuncture is believed to improve fertility through multiple physiological and psychological mechanisms.

How Acupuncture can Improve Reproductive Health:

1. Regulating Hormones & Improving Ovulation

Acupuncture helps balance reproductive hormones, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, and progesterone, which are crucial for ovulation.

Studies suggest it can improve ovarian function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by reducing insulin resistance and promoting regular cycles.

2. Enhancing Blood Flow to the Uterus & Ovaries

Acupuncture increase uterine blood flow, improving the thickness of the endometrial lining, which is essential for embryo implantation.

Better circulation to the ovaries can support egg quality and follicle development.

3. Reducing Stress & Cortisol Levels

Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can disrupt gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and interfere with ovulation.

Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, promoting relaxation and reducing stress-related infertility.

4. Supporting IVF & Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

Studies show that acupuncture before and after embryo transfer improve IVF success rates by:

Enhancing endometrial receptivity
Reducing uterine contractions
Lowering inflammation

5. Improving Sperm Quality in Men

Acupuncture benefits male fertility by:

Increasing sperm count & motility
Reducing DNA fragmentation
Balancing testosterone levels

Fertility is a deeply personal and often complex journey, and many individuals and couples are turning to holistic practices like acupuncture to support their reproductive health. Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been used for thousands of years to address a wide range of health concerns, including fertility. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, practitioners aim to balance the body’s energy (Qi), regulate hormones, improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, and reduce stress—all of which can enhance fertility.

The key acupuncture points that are commonly used to support fertility. Whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or undergoing assisted reproductive treatments like IVF, these points may play a role in optimizing your reproductive health.

1. Conception Vessel 6 (CV6): Qi Hai (“Sea of Qi”)

Location:

About 1.5 inches below the navel, along the midline of the body.

Benefits:
CV6 is one of the most important points for fertility in TCM. It is believed to regulate the menstrual cycle, balance hormones, and improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. By stimulating this point, acupuncturists aim to enhance ovulation rates and create a more favorable environment for conception.

Why it matters: A healthy menstrual cycle and balanced hormones are essential for fertility. CV6 helps to strengthen the body’s Qi, which is vital for reproductive health.

2. Conception Vessel 4 (CV4): Guan Yuan (“Origin Pass”)

Location: Just below CV6, about 3 inches below the navel.

Benefits:
CV4 is another key point for fertility, benefiting both men and women. It supports reproductive function, improves nutrient absorption, and addresses issues like low back pain and digestive problems. In TCM, this point is believed to strengthen the body’s foundational energy, which is essential for conception.

Why it matters: Proper nutrient absorption is critical for fertility, as it ensures your body has the resources it needs to support a healthy pregnancy. CV4 helps optimize this process while also addressing other common fertility-related concerns.

3. Extra Point: Zi Gong (“Uterus Point” "Palace of Child")

Location:

About 3 inches below the navel, slightly above the pubic bone.

Benefits:
As its name suggests, this point directly supports uterine health. It can help regulate menstrual cycles, alleviate painful or irregular periods, and improve overall uterine function.

Why it matters: A healthy uterus is crucial for implantation and pregnancy. Zigongxue is often used to address uterine disorders and create a more supportive environment for conception.

A Personalized Approach to Fertility

While these key points are commonly used in fertility acupuncture, it’s important to remember that every individual’s journey is unique. Your acupuncturist will tailor your treatment plan based on your specific needs, whether you’re dealing with irregular cycles, hormonal imbalances, stress, or other fertility challenges. Acupuncture is often combined with other holistic practices, such as nutrition, herbal medicine, and lifestyle changes, to provide comprehensive support.

Recommended Acupuncture Treatment Plan

Natural conception: Once or Tiwce Weekly sessions for 3–6 months (focusing on cycle phases).

IVF support:

Pre-transfer (Day 2-3 of cycle) – Improve follicle development.
Day of transfer (before & after) – Relax uterus & enhance blood flow.
Luteal phase support – Strengthen implantation.

Special for Women's Healthcare for International Women’s Day

This International Women’s Day, we honor the strength, resilience, and vitality of women everywhere. At Oriental Ensure Acupuncture, we believe in supporting women’s health and well-being through the ancient healing art of acupuncture. Whether you’re seeking balance, relief, or rejuvenation, we’re here to help you thrive.

Empowering Women’s Health
Acupuncture is a powerful tool for addressing women’s unique health needs, from hormonal balance and menstrual health to stress management and fertility support. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the incredible women who inspire us every day and reaffirm our commitment to helping you feel your best.

Special Offer
To celebrate, we’re offering upto 20% discount on acupuncture/cupping treatments for women during the month of March(Conditions may apply).

Take this opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being.

Join Us in Celebrating
Let’s honor the women in our lives—mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends—by supporting their health and happiness. Together, we can create a world where every woman feels empowered, balanced, and vibrant.

Book your appointment today and take a step toward holistic wellness. Because when women thrive, we all thrive.

Happy International Women’s Day!

Can Acupuncture Help with Tinnitus? Exploring an Ancient Remedy for a Modern Problem

If you’ve ever experienced a persistent ringing, buzzing, or whooshing sound in your ears that just won’t quit, you’re not alone. Tinnitus affects millions of people worldwide, and for many, it’s more than just an annoyance—it’s a daily challenge that impacts sleep, focus, and even emotional well-being.

How Can Acupuncture Help with Tinnitus?

While the exact cause of tinnitus varies—ranging from hearing loss and ear infections to stress and circulatory issues—acupuncture is believed to address some of the underlying factors contributing to the condition. Here’s how acupuncture can help:

Improving Blood Flow
Tinnitus is often linked to poor circulation in the inner ear. Acupuncture enhance blood flow to the area, promoting healing and reducing symptoms.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Stress is a common trigger for tinnitus and can exacerbate its symptoms. Acupuncture has been shown to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping the body relax and reducing stress-related tinnitus.
Balancing Energy Flow
In TCM, tinnitus is often associated with imbalances in the kidney , liver , gallbladder meridians. Acupuncture targets these meridians to restore harmony and alleviate symptoms.
Addressing Inflammation
Some cases of tinnitus are linked to inflammation in the auditory system. Acupuncture helps reduce inflammation, providing relief for certain individuals.

Acupuncture points for Tinnitus relief

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

If you’re considering acupuncture for tinnitus, here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation
Your acupuncturist will ask about your medical history, tinnitus symptoms, and overall health to create a personalized treatment plan.
Needle Insertion
Fine, sterile needles will be inserted into specific acupoints, often around the ears, head, hands, and feet. You may feel a slight tingling or warmth, but the process is generally painless.
Relaxation
You’ll rest for 20-30 minutes while the needles remain in place. Many people find this part of the session deeply relaxing.
Follow-Up
1 ro 2 sessions a week for 3 to 4 weeks are usually recommended to see results. Your acupuncturist will monitor your progress and adjust the treatment as needed.

Is Acupuncture Safe for Tinnitus?

Acupuncture is generally safe when performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner. Side effects are rare but may include minor bruising, soreness, or dizziness. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting acupuncture, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications.

Acupuncture for Improving Bowel Movements: A Natural Path to Digestive Health

In today’s fast-paced world, digestive issues like constipation, irregular bowel movements, and bloating have become increasingly common. In this blog, we’ll explore how acupuncture can help improve bowel movements and promote overall digestive wellness.

Understanding Acupuncture and Digestive Health

Acupuncture is a holistic healing technique that involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints. According to TCM, these points lie along meridians, or energy pathways, through which Qi (pronounced "chee"), or life force, flows. When Qi is blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to physical and emotional ailments, including digestive problems.

From a Western medical perspective, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system, release endorphins, and improve blood flow, which can help regulate bodily functions, including digestion. For those struggling with irregular bowel movements, acupuncture offers a natural, non-invasive approach to restoring balance.

How Acupuncture Improves Bowel Movements

Regulates the Digestive System
Acupuncture can help regulate the digestive system by stimulating the nerves and muscles in the gastrointestinal tract. This stimulation can enhance peristalsis, the wave-like contractions that move food through the intestines, making it easier to pass stool.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Stress is a major contributor to digestive issues, including constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Acupuncture has been shown to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress. By calming the mind and body, acupuncture can help alleviate stress-related digestive problems.
Balances Gut Microbiome
Emerging research suggests that acupuncture may positively influence the gut microbiome, the community of bacteria and other microorganisms in the digestive tract. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for regular bowel movements and overall digestive health.
Addresses Underlying Imbalances
In TCM, digestive issues are often linked to imbalances in the spleen, stomach, and liver meridians. Acupuncture works to restore harmony to these systems, addressing the root cause of irregular bowel movements rather than just treating the symptoms.

Common Acupuncture Points for Digestive Health

Acupuncturists target specific points to improve bowel function and relieve digestive discomfort. Some of the most commonly used points include:

Stomach 36 (ST36): Located on the lower leg, this point is known as the "master point" for digestive health. It strengthens the stomach and spleen, improves energy, and promotes regular bowel movements.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4): Found on the hand, this point helps relieve constipation and abdominal pain.
Spleen 6 (SP6): Situated on the inner leg, this point supports digestion and alleviates bloating and irregular bowel movements.
Ren 6 (CV6): Located on the abdomen, this point strengthens the digestive system and relieves constipation.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

If you’re considering acupuncture for digestive issues, here’s what you can expect:

Initial Visit: Our acupuncturist will ask about your medical history, diet, lifestyle, and specific digestive concerns to create a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment: You’ll lie comfortably while the acupuncturist inserts thin needles into specific points. The process is generally painless, and many people find it deeply relaxing.
Follow-Up: Depending on your condition, you may need 1 to 2 sessions per week for 3 to 4 weeks to achieve optimal results. Dietary changes, or lifestyle adjustments to support your treatment may also be recommended.

Scientific Evidence Supporting Acupuncture for Digestive Health

Research has shown promising results for acupuncture in treating digestive disorders. A 2020 study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that acupuncture significantly improved symptoms of constipation and IBS. Another study in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine reported that acupuncture enhanced bowel function in patients with chronic constipation.

While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind acupuncture’s effects on digestion, many patients report noticeable improvements in their bowel movements and overall digestive health after treatment.

Tips for Enhancing the Benefits of Acupuncture

To maximize the benefits of acupuncture for bowel movements, consider incorporating these practices into your routine:

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
Eat a Fiber-Rich Diet: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your diet to support gut health.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity stimulates digestion and helps prevent constipation.
Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness, yoga, or meditation to reduce stress and support digestive function.

Acupuncture offers a natural, holistic approach to improving bowel movements and enhancing digestive health. By addressing the root causes of digestive issues and promoting balance within the body, acupuncture can help you achieve regularity and relieve discomfort. If you’re struggling with constipation, bloating, or other digestive problems, consider exploring acupuncture as part of your wellness journey. Always consult a licensed acupuncturist or healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Remember, a healthy gut is the foundation of overall well-being. With acupuncture, you can take a step toward better digestion and a happier, healthier you.

Have you tried acupuncture for digestive issues? Share your experiences in the comments below! Let’s start a conversation about natural ways to support our digestive health. 🌿💫