In many cultures, language often reflects our relationship with our body and emotions. We say something “sickens our stomach” or “breaks our heart,” blending physical reactions with emotional experiences. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), like many other holistic systems, traces the connection between emotions and internal organs.
Today’s featured acupoint, Below the Joint (xia guan, ST7), illustrates how ancient TCM practitioners linked decision-making to a specific organ. This acupoint can clear two energetic pathways, or meridians, with just one point.
2 Meridians, 1 Powerful Crossroad
First documented in the ancient acupuncture manual “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion),” xia guan holds a structurally and energetically significant role. It’s akin to the pressure valve regulating the vital energy, or “qi,” that flows upward from the face. It is also an intersection of the stomach and gallbladder meridians.
In TCM, the stomach’s role closely aligns with that in Western medicine. It is viewed as a storage facility that initiates the breakdown of food and primarily stores it until the spleen extracts the necessary nutrients.
The gallbladder, on the other hand, has a unique dual role that encompasses both physical and emotional aspects. Physically, the gallbladder supports liver function and aids digestion. What’s more, in TCM, the gallbladder governs decision-making and courage. In Chinese culture, when someone says, “you have a big gallbladder,” they are complimenting your bravery.
Practical Uses
Xia guan has a clear range of real-world applications. Thanks to its location in the depression between the cheekbone and jaw, it’s perfectly suited to address problems in both the jaw and ear.
For jaw concerns, it’s a go-to for easing pain in the face, relieving temporomandibular joint disorder, and soothing toothaches in the lower jaw.
For ear issues, xia guan is used in cases of tinnitus, ear pain, discharge, and hearing loss. Whether you’re struggling with a clenched jaw or a ringing ear, this point can help reset balance and ease tension in a very direct, physical way.
Where Science Meets Tradition
Recent studies are investigating xia guan’s application in clinical settings for both adult and pediatric patients. In one clinical study involving children with adenoid hypertrophy—a condition that can block nasal passages and disrupt sleep—researchers compared a standard nasal spray with a TCM protocol centered around xia guan. The TCM group received deep needling at xia guan, electroacupuncture, and warm acupuncture.
After 12 weeks, children in the acupuncture group showed significantly greater improvement in symptoms, adenoid size, and overall sleep quality—with a 93.3 percent success rate compared to 83.3 percent in the control group.
Another meta-analysis looked at adults with orofacial pain, especially those suffering from temporomandibular disorders. Across 52 studies, xia guan emerged as one of the most effective and commonly used points. Stimulating this acupoint helped reduce pain, improve jaw mobility, and ease muscle tenderness. Though more rigorous research is needed, these findings underscore how effective xia guan can be as a therapeutic option for facial issues.
How to Locate and Stimulate Xia Guan
To locate xia guan, place your fingers just in front of your ear and feel the area between the cheekbone (zygomatic arch) and the notch of the lower jaw (mandible). Close your mouth and gently press. If you feel tenderness or soreness in a small groove-like depression, you’ve likely found the right spot—TCM calls this an “ashi” point, where the body signals the presence of an acupoint.
How to Stimulate Xia Guan
- Press firmly for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Massage the area with circular motions using your index finger or thumb for the same duration.
- Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer-lasting support.
- Consult a trained TCM professional for acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion for deeper activation—especially if jaw or ear problems persist.
Precautions
Skip stimulation if the area has been recently injured or if you’ve had facial surgery or dental procedures nearby. If using herbal patches, make sure they don’t contain harsh chemicals—especially if you have sensitive skin.
A Final Word on Self-Care
Xia guan isn’t just for moments of jaw pain or ear trouble. Think of it as a traffic officer at the intersection of two major streets. When the flow is blocked here, symptoms—physical or emotional—can back up across multiple systems.
So if you’re feeling stuck, indecisive, or weighed down, spend a moment here. A few intentional breaths, a bit of gentle pressure, and you might find that the next right step becomes just a bit clearer.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 29 June 2025
