Outer Thigh
Dear Patient,
Last week in Access Points I wrote about the places where physically we hold our emotional stress, and observed that the thigh isn’t typically one of those places.
There’s one exception though.
If you press around along the lateral or outer side of your thigh, chances are you’ll find a tender spot or two, perhaps a VERY tender spot or two, along a thick bundle of fibers called the iliotibial band or IT band, a body part that’s notoriously difficult to stretch.
Nestled in this bunch of connective tissue are the acupuncture points Gallbladder 31, 32 and 33 (scroll down for location notes).
The Gallbladder is an interesting system. Its domain is the in-between, pivotal stage of disease. The Gallbladder meridian is the only one whose pathway courses down the side of the body. The Gallbladder organ is considered both a regular yang organ and what we can an “extraordinary” organ. The Gallbladder governs decision-making and is associated with courage.
Tenderness in these points along the outer thigh could mean that you’re fixed in indecision and inaction. We might not always be aware when we’re feeling stuck. We plow through, just trying to withstand the day or the week or a pandemic. But the body gives us clues. Maybe you are indeed holding emotional stress in your thigh—perhaps it’s telling you to be courageous, make a decision, and take action.
Love and gratitude,
Your Acupuncturist
P.S. Each Wednesday I write about a different acupuncture point. Are there any you’re curious about? Let me know!
Location Notes:
Gallbladder 31, 32 and 33 are all located along the midline of the lateral or outer thigh. Gallbladder 31 is traditionally described as being where the tip of the middle finger reaches when a person is standing erect with their arms extended by their sides. Gallbladder 32 is located about two inches below GB31, and Gallbladder 33 is about two more inches below GB32.