We all know that stress can wreak havoc on the body—but did you know it can also change how we eat and gain weight? One study found that when stress hormones stick around too long, they make our brains more reactive to stress. In response, many people turn to high-calorie comfort foods.
These foods increase belly fat and insulin levels, which appear to calm the brain. It’s a messy cycle that might be helped by Big Gigantic (Da Ju, ST27), a commonly used acupoint with impressive benefits. While it won’t erase your snack cravings, it may help you slim down your lower belly and support your digestive system.
What the Classics Say
Da Ju was first recorded in “The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,” one of the oldest texts in traditional Chinese medicine. It belongs to the Stomach meridian, so naturally, it supports digestive health. What makes it fascinating is its connection to the kidney system—tying it to the body’s core vital energy, or yuanqi, that, according to TCM theory, is inherited from your parents. The stomach and spleen manage your postnatal energy—how your body changes in response to life’s stressors, while the kidneys are in charge of your foundation—what you were born with. Da Ju is one of those rare points that connect to both.
Supporting the Gut and Beyond
In practical terms, Da Ju helps alleviate bloating, improve digestion, and even address hernias. Its location and function make it useful for addressing lower belly bulge—the weight that accumulates in the lower abdomen. TCM practitioners recommend stimulating the acupoint regularly to help the body shed weight.
Because it influences kidney energy, Da Ju is also particularly relevant for men’s health. In TCM, male reproductive health is rooted in kidney function. Thus, this point is often used to address issues such as frequent urination, lack of control, or performance difficulties. If you’re dealing with urgency, sluggish flow, or stamina issues, Da Ju may offer support, naturally and without side effects.
Research-Backed Benefits
Modern research supports Da Ju’s role in healthy digestion. In one study on stroke survivors struggling with constipation, Da Ju was used as part of an acupoint embedding protocol. Patients had tiny absorbable threads inserted under the skin at specific abdominal points, including Da Ju. Compared to a sham group, the real treatment group experienced more frequent and easier bowel movements, better stool consistency, and a significant improvement in quality of life.
Another study investigated the use of abdominal needling after heart surgery. One group received standard medication while the other received abdominal acupuncture, including Da Ju. Within five days, the acupuncture group experienced noticeably less bloating, nausea, and constipation, and their stomachs emptied faster. Levels of motilin, a hormone that helps move food through the digestive tract, also recovered faster. These results demonstrate Da Ju’s ability to kickstart sluggish digestion and restore balance after trauma or illness.
How to Locate and Activate Da Ju
To locate Da Ju, start by measuring two thumb-widths below your navel. From that point, measure another two thumb-widths to each side. You’ve got one point on each side of your lower belly. Gently press around that area. If you find a tender or sore spot, that’s likely the right location—these sensations signal the presence of an acupoint.
Ways to Activate Da Ju
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy using dried mugwort) by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
Precautions
Skip stimulating this point if you have recent injuries in the area. If you’re using herbal patches, opt for products with gentle, natural ingredients—especially if your skin is sensitive.
Why You Should Care
Da Ju isn’t just for guys or people looking to lose a few inches. Everyone’s stomach and kidney systems benefit from regular support. Da Ju is easy to reach, simple to use, and doesn’t require a lot of time—just a few minutes here and there. If your lower belly is feeling a little too big lately, this could be your new favorite spot for self-care.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 20 July 2025
