How do you feel after a long day on your laptop? Do your eyes feel swollen and red? Do you get headaches, or does brain fog make it hard to focus? Staring at screens for extended periods can strain your eyes, tighten your neck, and leave you feeling exhausted. Fortunately, an easy-to-find acupoint may relieve these symptoms: Temporal Hairline Curve (Qu Bin, GB7). Conveniently located and simple to stimulate, it’s a convenient self-care tool—even in the middle of a workday.
A Simple Remedy for Work-Related Discomfort
Some people refer to Qu Bin as the acupoint for office workers because it effectively alleviates discomfort associated with prolonged screen use. Stimulating this acupoint can:
- Reduce redness and swelling in the eyes
- Alleviate side-of-the-head headaches caused by tension or blood vessel pressure
- Improve circulation in the head, easing stiffness in the neck and temples
This acupoint is ideal for people who spend extended periods looking at screens. It helps restore clarity and naturally eases tension.
Traditional and Modern Perspectives on Qu Bin
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the Qu Bin acupoint plays a significant role in balancing the flow of energy in the head. This point is located at the intersection of the gallbladder and urinary bladder meridians or energy pathways, making it particularly effective. Since these meridians influence circulation in the head, stimulating Qu Bin can help reduce tension and discomfort.
Modern research suggests that acupuncture at Qu Bin has benefits beyond pain relief. An analysis of 32 studies published in Frontiers in Neurology found that acupuncture significantly improved neurological function and reduced brain swelling in animal models with intercerebral hemorrhage, a type of stroke. Notably, stimulating Qu Bin along with Baihui (DU20), an acupoint on the top of the head, was effective in promoting brain recovery.
Another study found that activating these points helped protect the blood-brain barrier and reduced inflammation by blocking a harmful signaling pathway. While more human studies are needed, these findings indicate that GB7 plays a valuable role in supporting brain function and recovery.
How to Locate and Stimulate Qu Bin
Locating Qu Bin is quite simple. Follow these steps:
- Place one finger vertically where the front part of your earlobe connects to your face.
- Place another finger horizontally at the highest point of your ear.
- Feel around the hairline where these two fingers intersect. You should notice a slight depression in that area, which may feel sore or tender to the touch. This is Qu Bin.
Once you locate Qu Bin (GB7), try these techniques to stimulate the point:
- Direct Pressure: Press gently for three to five seconds, release for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular Massage: Use your index finger or thumb to massage the point in small circles for one to three minutes per side.
- Advanced Therapies: Contact a qualified TCM professional, such as a TCM doctor or acupuncturist, to explore more intense stimulation methods like acupuncture or moxibustion. Be cautious with moxibustion, as it involves burning mugwort sticks. Since the treatment area is close to the hairline, take care not to accidentally burn the hair.
When to Use Caution
Avoid stimulating Qu Bin if you have open wounds, bruises, or injuries in the area. Consult a health care professional for guidance if you experience persistent headaches or severe discomfort.
A Natural Solution for Modern Stress
In today’s digital world, we often push our brains and eyes to their limits. Fortunately, nature offers solutions to ease the strain and restore balance. By incorporating this simple acupressure technique into your routine, you can support your well-being and stay energized throughout the day.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 25 Feb 2025
