Modern medicine is increasingly recognizing a concept that traditional healing systems, such as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), have long understood—that emotional distress can lead to tangible physical effects.
A pertinent example is takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as “broken heart syndrome.” First identified by Japanese researchers, the condition occurs when extreme stress causes a sudden weakening of the heart muscle, predominantly affecting women in their 60s.
TCM offers proactive strategies to address such situations. Located right above the wrist, the Connecting Interior (Tong Li, HT5) acupoint may help support the emotional and physical aspects of well-being.
Ancient Medicine and the Mind-Body Link
Tong Li is first mentioned in the classic TCM text “Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot),” part of the foundational “Yellow Emperor’s Canon.” Tong Li holds a unique status as a Luo Connecting Point, meaning it serves as a bridge within the Heart meridian—connecting external and internal energies—and linking the heart to the Small Intestine meridian. Luo points, like Tong Li, help regulate the flow of qi and blood, balancing paired meridians or energy pathways.
Practically, as a point on the Heart meridian, Tong Li is used for various physical conditions that arise from emotional triggers. TCM practitioners commonly apply it to relieve chest pain and racing heartbeats caused by anxiety or stress.
In TCM, the heart is viewed as the organ that expresses itself externally through language, making Tong Li an essential part of treatment protocols for speech issues such as aphasia after a stroke, stuttering, or sudden loss of voice.
Additionally, due to its connection to the small intestine, Tong Li can be used for internal applications, such as addressing intestinal bleeding. Its proximity to the wrist also supports wrist strength and mobility.
Brain Imaging Confirms TCM Observations
Modern research has provided visual proof of Tong Li’s influence, especially in treating language disorders. In one fMRI study, acupuncture at the right Tong Li acupoint activated language-related areas in both hemispheres of the brain, especially on the left side, which is typically dominant for language processing.
Sham acupuncture and stimulation on the left side didn’t produce the same effect, suggesting that stimulating the right Tong Li has a unique role in accessing and activating language centers in the brain.
Another study using electroacupuncture at Tong Li reinforced these findings. Healthy participants showed strong activity in the left inferior frontal gyrus—a critical area for speech—when the point was stimulated. The same region also lit up during a picture-naming task, indicating that Tong Li stimulation might help “wake up” parts of the brain responsible for language. Compared to those who received non-specific sham stimulation, the Tong Li group showed stronger and more targeted activation.
How to Locate and Activate Tong Li
Finding this point is simple. Turn your palm upward and locate the tendon that helps flex the hand. On the pinky side of your wrist, move about one thumb-width upward from the crease of the wrist. Feel around for a spot that feels tender or sore when you touch it. Some people experience a numbing sensation. These reactions to pressure indicate that you’ve found the acupoint.
Tong Li can be activated in several ways:
- Pressure Technique: Apply steady pressure for three to five seconds, then relax. Repeat for up to three minutes on each wrist.
- Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to gently massage in a circular motion.
- Herbal patch: For an extended effect, use an herbal patch and leave it on overnight.
For more advanced stimulation, acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) by a licensed TCM practitioner can offer deeper, more targeted results.
Precautions
Avoid stimulating this point if you have an injury in the area. If you’re using herbal patches, refrain from those with synthetic or harsh ingredients, especially if your skin is prone to allergic reactions.
A Holistic Ally for Heart and Mind
Tong Li is a useful and accessible point for balancing emotional and physical well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety-induced palpitations, recovering from speech difficulties, or simply needing a calming reset, this point provides a safe, natural way to support your heart and mind. Use it regularly as part of your self-care practice to give your system the kind of support that works together with your body.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 8 May 2025
