In today’s fast-paced, screen-dominated world, our bodies pay the price for long hours of sedentary activities and eye strain. Introducing today’s acupoint, Xing Jian (LR2), a powerful acupoint in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) known for its ability to regulate blood flow, ease hypertension, and even enhance skin radiance. But one of its most remarkable benefits? It’s a game-changer for tired, swollen, or irritated eyes—whether from staring at screens, battling fatigue, driving for long hours, or dealing with conditions like styes or glaucoma. If you spend your days seated and straining your vision, this point is worth your attention.
How Xing Jian Works, According to TCM
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each internal organ has a corresponding external opening, and the liver is connected to the eyes. Xing Jian (LR2) is the second acupoint on the Liver Meridian—an energy pathway running through the body—and it plays a vital role in maintaining balance. As the Fire point of this meridian, it helps clear excess heat, regulate the flow of vital energy (Qi), and promote smooth blood circulation. In TCM, Fire represents warmth, transformation, and movement. When the liver’s function becomes overactive or stagnates, issues like high blood pressure, excessive menstrual bleeding, bloating, and mood swings can arise. Since the Liver governs blood storage and circulation, stimulating Xing Jian is particularly beneficial for counteracting the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle.
Key Benefits of Xing Jian
- Regulates Blood Pressure – Often used alongside other acupoints to manage hypertension.
- Eases Eye Discomfort – Reduces redness, swelling, styes, and irritation from wind or fatigue.
- Restores Radiance of Complexion – Boosts circulation for a healthier, more radiant glow.
- Alleviates Pain – Helps relieve menstrual cramps and lower abdominal discomfort.
Where Modern Science Supports the Tradition
For centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners have used Xing Jian to boost circulation, reduce stress-related damage, and restore a healthy, youthful glow to the skin. Modern research supports these benefits, with studies indicating that stimulating Xing Jian—especially in combination with other acupoints—may help lower hypertension. Western medicine also acknowledges the link between high blood pressure and headaches, reinforcing TCM’s belief that an imbalance in liver function can contribute to these conditions.
Locating Xing Jian
You’ll find Xing Jian between the first and second toes, about half an inch above the webbing. Be prepared—it’s a sensitive spot! Research shows that acupoints on the feet tend to be more tender than others.
How to Stimulate Xing Jian
Given its sensitivity, there are two effective ways to activate this acupoint:
- Heat Therapy: Use a blow-dryer on low heat, aiming at the point for 10–15 minutes per foot. This gentle warmth encourages circulation without discomfort.
- Acupressure: Apply firm but tolerable pressure for 30 seconds, release, and repeat for 1–3 minutes on each foot.
For enhanced healing, a TCM professional can perform acupuncture or moxibustion on this point. At home, you can boost its effects by applying a herbal patch.
Who Should Try It?
You may benefit from stimulating Xing Jian if you:
- Struggle with high blood pressure or poor circulation.
- Experience chronic stress, irritability, or headaches.
- Suffer from menstrual pain or excessive bleeding.
- Want to restore a naturally healthy complexion.
Who Should Avoid It?
- Pregnant individuals.
- Those with open wounds or infections near the area.
Put It To the Test
After a long day of sitting at your desk and pouring energy into deadlines and meetings, take a moment to reconnect with yourself. Just six minutes of self-care can make a difference—try stimulating Xing Jian and see how your body responds. Give yourself the same attention you give to your work, and let this ancient wisdom bring balance back into your modern life.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 3 Feb 2025
