Episode 6: Spleen 6
What conditions can Spleen 6 help with?
Spleen 6 is a widely used acupuncture point that’s beneficial for so many things — from general wellbeing and stress to reproductive health and digestion. It’s probably best known for gynecological issues, and sexual health in both women and men.
Where is Spleen 6 located?
Spleen 6 is located on the inside of the lower leg, just above the ankle. To find it, place the pinkie-side edge of your hand against the high point of your medial malleolous — that’s the big bone that sticks out on the inside of your ankle. With your hand lying flat against your inner leg, Spleen 6 is located in line with the center of the malleolus at the index-finger edge of your hand.
How do I perform acupressure on Spleen 6?
Spleen 6 is an easy point to access. If it’s comfortable, you can press the point on both sides by getting into a modified cross-legged position. If that doesn’t work for you, just press one side at a time: Sit upright with your ankle crossed over your opposite leg. Using your hand on the same side as the leg you’re pressing, come from above the point and place your thumb at Spleen 6. Grasping your leg with your fingers, apply firm pressure with your thumb.
Anything else I should know about Spleen 6?
An important thing to know about Spleen 6 is that it’s contraindicated in pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or performing acupressure on someone who is, skip this point. For everyone else, it’s a keeper.
Spleen 6’s name, Three Yin Intersection, is a clue as to why it’s such a popular acupuncture point. Spleen 6 is the point at which the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians intersect—hence the name, Three Yin Intersection. This means it can be used to address issues having to do with any of these three channels, which is a lot. Spleen, Liver and Kidney are principally important in a significant number of functions throughout the body. Plagued by overworked and stressed-out lifestyles, many people are afflicted with patterns that affect the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians. For this reason, Spleen 6 is included in most acupuncture treatments for general-wellness, balancing, and stress-reduction.
