Whether you work in an air-conditioned office during summer or rely on central heating in winter, one thing is certain: Climate control devices dry out the air and, in turn, your eyes. Long hours in front of a screen, exposure to dry environments, and artificial lighting contribute to eye fatigue and dryness.
Some people even experience elevated eye pressure, making daily tasks uncomfortable. While eye drops can help with some symptoms, consider tapping into your body’s natural healing system with an acupoint that’s easy to find and convenient to press—Head Governor of Tears (Tou Lin Qi, GB15).
Traditional Wisdom and Modern Research
Tou Lin Qi is highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for its significant contributions to eye health and the overall functioning of facial organs. This point is situated on the gallbladder meridian, an energy pathway that traverses the body. In TCM, the gallbladder has a close relationship with the liver, which is believed to nourish the eyes, thus stimulating Tou Lin Qi, which is thought to promote clear vision, alleviate eye strain, and enhance mental clarity.
Similar to Western medicine, TCM acknowledges the important roles the liver and gallbladder play in detoxification. Moreover, TCM also associates specific emotions and cognitive functions with internal organs. In the case of the gallbladder, it governs decisiveness and decision-making, concepts that align with what modern cognitive science refers to as executive function.
Modern research is exploring various benefits of Tou Lin Qi beyond its traditional use for eye fatigue. Studies suggest stimulating Tou Lin Qi increases cerebral blood flow, impacting brain health through connections with the trigeminal nerve and cerebrospinal fluid. This could help in managing neurological conditions.
Acupuncture at scalp and body points—including Tou Lin Qi—has been shown to regulate gut microbiota and improve gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autism. This supports the idea that this acupoint may play a role in gut health via the gut-brain axis.
Research on shallow needling near the forehead, including Tou Lin Qi, indicates enhanced immune function and improved intestinal movement, offering potential benefits beyond eye relief.
How to Locate and Stimulate Tou Lin Qi
- Focus your gaze straight ahead.
- Imagine a vertical line extending upward from your pupils.
- Follow this line until you reach about an inch into your hairline.
- Feel around for a slight indentation and press gently—if you find a tender or sore spot, you’ve found Tou Lin Qi!
The best part about Tou Lin Qi is that it’s simple to stimulate, even at your desk:
- Direct Pressure: Press firmly on the acupoint for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Gentle Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to massage in small circles for one to three minutes per side.
- Advanced Techniques: A trained TCM practitioner can apply acupuncture or moxibustion, a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort, though care should be taken to avoid burning hair when using moxa.
When to Avoid Stimulating Tou Lin Qi
Avoid pressing this area if you have injuries, cuts, or inflammation in the region.
Self-Care That Fits Into Your Routine
Unlike some acupoints located on the feet or back, Tou Lin Qi is accessible and easy to stimulate anytime, anywhere. It’s a perfect self-care tool during a lunch break or after long hours of screen exposure. If you have children in your care, consider gently applying acupressure to their Tou Lin Qi acupoints as well—their developing eyes are under as much strain as yours!
This simple ritual can also serve as a moment of connection and relaxation. By incorporating this practice into your daily routine, you can foster a sense of well-being and mindfulness for yourself and those you care for.
