HT-7 Shenmen
HT-7 Shenmen (神門) is a point on the Heart meridian. In TCM theory it is described as influencing the channel's qi, and it is traditionally used in the context of the whole pattern rather than as a stand-alone remedy. This page explains how to locate it, what the tradition says about it, and how to press it safely.
Location
At the ulnar end of the wrist crease, in the depression radial to the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris.
How to find it
Lay the palm face up. On the little-finger side of the wrist crease, find the tendon; the point is in the small hollow just on its thumb side.
Traditional functions
- Shu-stream and yuan-source point of the Heart meridian
- Calms the spirit (shen)
- Nourishes heart blood
Traditional uses
- Insomnia and restless sleep
- Anxiety and a busy mind
- Palpitations in the traditional description
- Wrist discomfort
How to press it
Press gently for 1 minute on each wrist, ideally in the evening. Pair with slow breathing.
Acupressure is generally a gentle practice. Use the pad of the thumb or finger, start with light pressure, and increase only to a comfortable level. A mild ache or warmth is common; sharp pain is a signal to ease off.
Safety
Palpitations, chest pain, or breathlessness need medical evaluation. Do not press firmly over an inflamed wrist.
How this is viewed today
HT-7 has been examined in small trials for insomnia and anxiety, with preliminary results. Larger, better-controlled studies are needed.
Sources & further reading
- Huangdi Neijing (黃帝內經), c. 2nd century BCE.
- Nanjing (難經), c. 1st–2nd century CE.
- World Health Organization, Standard Acupuncture Nomenclature, 2nd ed., 1991.
- Deadman P, Al-Khafaji M, Baker K. A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Acupuncture: What You Need To Know.
Related: Heart meridian · Acupoint library · PC-6 Neiguan · PC-7 Daling · KI-6 Zhaohai · all twelve meridians