Glasses often become a part of life as we age, but vision decline doesn’t have to be an inevitable struggle. Even for those who need corrective lenses, eye discomfort, and strain can be alleviated with the right care. Instead of constantly reaching for your glasses, consider the acupoint called Bright Light (Guang Ming, GB37), an acupoint known for its potential to support eye health and visual clarity.
Guang Ming in Traditional Chinese Medicine
First documented in the “Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot)”—a foundational text in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that focuses on acupuncture—Guang Ming has long been associated with vision support. It is a Luo connecting point, meaning it serves as a bridge between two types of internal organs in TCM: a hollow and a solid organ.
Guang Ming links the gallbladder (a hollow organ) with the liver (a solid organ), which, in TCM, is believed to govern eye health. The name “Guang Ming,” meaning “bright light,” reflects its traditional use in enhancing vision, delaying the need for glasses, and addressing night blindness. This acupoint has been treasured for centuries as a go-to acupoint for maintaining clear eyesight.
Modern Science Explores Guang Ming’s Potential
While TCM attributes Guang Ming’s benefits to its connection with the liver and gallbladder meridians, modern science is uncovering its neurological and physiological effects.
Recent research used functional magnetic resonance imaging to analyze brain responses to electroacupuncture at Guang Ming compared to another acupoint, KI8 (Jiaoxin). The study found that Guang Ming stimulation caused distinct power fluctuations in the periaqueductal gray, occipital cortex, and temporal cortex—regions associated with vision, sensory integration, and pain modulation. Furthermore, its sustained effects were linked to areas involved in cognitive and emotional regulation, supporting the idea that Guang Ming has a measurable impact on brain function.
Another study examined how Guang Ming affects visual function in myopic patients. Researchers measured uncorrected distance visual acuity—the ability to see clearly at a distance without the aid of glasses or contact lenses—and contrast sensitivity before and after acupuncture, tracking brain activity with electroencephalography (EEG). Results showed that stimulation of Guang Ming significantly enhanced both factors across all spatial frequencies. EEG analysis revealed an increased presence of microstate A, a brain activity pattern correlated with improved contrast sensitivity, reinforcing that Guang Ming’s vision-enhancing effects have a neurological basis.
How to Locate and Stimulate Guang Ming
To find Guang Ming, locate the bony bump on the outer side of your ankle (the lateral malleolus). Measure about seven finger-widths directly above it on the outer side of your lower leg. Press around this area to find a slightly tender spot between your bone and the tendon—this is Guang Ming.
Activating Guang Ming can be done in several ways:
- Acupressure: Apply firm pressure for three to five seconds, release for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each leg.
- Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to massage in slow circular motions for one to three minutes.
- Herbal Patches: Apply a TCM herbal patch overnight for a continuous effect.
- Advanced Techniques: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion—a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort—performed by a trained TCM practitioner can enhance the benefits of this acupoint.
When to Avoid Stimulating Guang MingAvoid this acupoint if you have injuries in the area. If using herbal patches, opt for natural ingredients and avoid artificial chemicals, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Final Thoughts on Self-Care
While glasses may be necessary for many, eye strain, discomfort, and fatigue don’t have to be. Simple self-care techniques like acupressure at Guang Ming can support eye health, potentially helping reduce the reliance on glasses or contact lenses. Incorporating this practice into your daily routine can be a natural, effective way to care for your vision and enhance comfort—one firm press at a time.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 25 Mar 2025
