Dear Patient,
One of my favorite points for anxiety is actually a group of points, Si Shen Cong (pronounced sir shin song). It’s four points surrounding Du 20, which is the point at the vertex of the head. So find the spot that feels like it’s at the very top of the head—then approximately one inch in front, behind and on either side is the Si Shen Cong group. Just massage all around the top of your head, and you'll hit the points eventually. I like to really dig into my scalp with my fingernails.
The name Si Shen Cong means Four Alarm Spirit, because it calls attention to anything out of balance with your emotional, mental or spiritual aspect. I treat a lot of anxious people, and I use this point grouping every day.
Interestingly, these are also some of my favorite points for depression. When a person is anxious these points have a calming effect. When a person feels overly sedate they have an energizing effect. Si Shen Cong can have completely opposite actions, depending on the patient. How can that be?
It’s because deep down, your body knows what it needs. Needles point in the direction of a problem, and the body adjusts in response. Your job is simply to allow the healing to unfold within you.
Love and gratitude,
Your Acupuncturist
P.S. Every Wednesday I write about a different acupuncture point. Do you have any requests? Let me know!
I have always wondered which points were for my anxiety! I will definitely be using that and digging my fingers in my head like you do!! I'd like to learn more about points to help with fibromyalgia pain.