Sleepless nights can feel like a frustrating cycle that never ends. Tossing and turning while watching the hours slip away is a feeling millions experience at night. It’s no surprise that the U.S. market for sleep aids has grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry.
However, if you are concerned about the side effects and potential dependency associated with pharmaceutical options, there is a holistic option worth considering. Enter Ear Harmony Crevice (Er He Liao, TE22), an acupoint recognized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a pathway to achieving inner calm and improving sleep quality.
Harmonizing Energies
Er He Liao, which translates to “Ear Harmony Crevice,” is more than just a poetic name—it is classified as the exit point of the Triple Energizer meridian, one of the energy channels in TCM. This meridian is responsible for fluid metabolism and the movement of energy throughout the upper, middle, and lower parts of the body.
While modern TCM practitioners debate the importance of exit and entry points, many agree that these locations are crucial for balancing excesses of yin and yang energy. Since the Triple Energizer is a yang meridian, stimulating Er He Liao may help relieve an excess of yang, restoring balance with the calming yin that supports sleep and relaxation.
Additionally, Er He Liao has a soothing effect on the “shen,” or spirit, making it especially beneficial for those experiencing restlessness, anxious thoughts, or sleep disturbances. Furthermore, if you experience head pain or pressure, the Er He Liao acupoint may relieve physical discomfort and mental tension.
A Built-In Diagnostic Tool
Another fascinating element of Er He Liao is its location just above the superficial temporal artery. If you rest your fingers gently just in front of your ear, near the hairline, you might feel its pulse beating beneath the skin. According to some TCM practitioners, the rhythm and quality of this pulse can offer clues about your sleep health. A gentle, even pulse on both sides suggests good circulation in the head region and thus good sleep quality, while an asymmetrical or pounding sensation might reflect internal disturbances affecting sleep.
Modern Science: A New Lens on an Old Point
Ancient theories often discuss concepts of energy and meridians, but today’s researchers are investigating Er He Liao from a biomedical perspective, particularly regarding its role in pain management.
One clinical study focused on an acupuncture treatment protocol for chronic migraines. The results indicated that acupuncture was more effective than the standard migraine medication flunarizine. Patients who received acupuncture experienced fewer and shorter migraine attacks, less pain, and improved blood flow in key cerebral arteries.
Additionally, the treatment altered crucial chemical markers by reducing inflammatory and pain-related compounds, while increasing levels of 5-HT, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and pain. Patients felt physically better and reported an improved quality of life.
How to Locate and Stimulate Er He Liao
Finding Er He Liao is straightforward. It is located where your ear connects to your head, specifically at the root of the auricle, along the edge of your temple’s hairline. You should be able to feel a pulse at this spot. When you press on the acupoint, it may feel sore or tender to the touch.
How to Stimulate Er He Liao for Better Rest
- Finger Pressure: Apply gentle pressure for three to five seconds, release for three seconds, and repeat this rhythm for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to massage the area in slow, calming circles for one to three minutes.
- Herbal Patch: For deeper relaxation, try applying an herbal patch overnight.
- Advanced Methods: Techniques like acupuncture, moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort), or gua sha (gentle scraping of the skin to boost circulation) should only be done by trained professionals.
Precautions:
Because of its proximity to the artery, Er He Liao point can be sensitive. Start gently, and increase pressure only if it’s comfortable. Skip direct stimulation if you have injuries near the area, and consult a professional before trying advanced methods. If you’re using herbal patches, read ingredient lists carefully to avoid aggressive chemicals, especially if your skin is prone to allergic reactions.
A Natural Wind-Down Ritual
Rest doesn’t have to come in the form of a pill. Incorporating Er He Liao stimulation into your bedtime routine might give your body and mind the nudge they need toward peaceful slumber. It’s a no-cost, low-effort, side-effect-free practice that could help anchor your evenings in calm. Try it for a few nights and see what changes. Chances are, better sleep is just a touch away.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 23 Apr 2025
