Bright Light
Dear Patient,
Is the cold gray malaise of January getting to you? Many of us feel the winter blues this time of year, and some people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, a form of depression. When we’re stuck inside and it gets dark early, it’s easy to get overtaken by the listlessness and gloom of winter. I like to use the point Gallbladder 37 as an antidote.
The Chinese name for Gallbladder 37—Guang Ming—means Bright Light. Its primary function is to treat all kinds of eye disorders, including eye pain, irritation, itching and night blindness. It’s what we call a lou-connecting point, meaning it has a direct line to its partner channel—in this case the Liver. The Liver opens to the eyes, so Gallbladder 37 benefits the eyes by way of its connection to the Liver.
But I like to think that this point’s function extends beyond the realm of the physical eyes. I think of it as a bright light piercing the gray expanse of winter, an infusion of sunlight into the darkness.
Light energizes, clarifies, refocuses. It penetrates and revitalizes. That’s why light therapy is so effective for Seasonal Affective Disorder. When you’re feeling the winter blues, look for the bright light. If you can’t find it outside, try looking within.
Love and gratitude,
Your Acupuncturist
P.S. Every Wednesday I write about a different acupuncture point. Are there any you’re curious about? Let me know!
Location Notes:
Gallbladder 37 is located on the lateral side of the lower leg, about five inches above the lateral malleolus, aka the outside ankle bone. Close your eyes and press, and visualize light moving through your body.