According to the classical view of Chinese Medicine, we are now in the first stage of the summer season. This means a strong activation of the fire element in our external environment and our internal, physiological terrain. This fire element energy especially pertains to the Qi of the heart, governing our emotional state, circadian rhythm, and many crucial neurological functions.
This fire element function means that there is lots of powerful energy available. We see everything growing, maturing, and developing in power and vitality. Internally, we often feel extra inspired, confident, and joyful in this early summer season. However, those of us with an imbalance or deficiency of the heart Qi are vulnerable to symptoms of anxiety and insomnia. I have seen this quite a bit in my clinic over the last couple of weeks.
What can we do to balance the Qi of the heart and coordinate with this fire element season? There is one acupressure point I find very helpful. It is easy to use by yourself. The point is on the Heart channel and is known as “Shao Fu”. This point is excellent for balancing the fire element energy of the heart because it has a “fire on fire” function. It is the fire element point of the fire element channel.
Shao Fu is located on the palm of the hand, the center-ulnar side, in between the flexor tendons of the pinky and ring finger. You will find a very sensitive point that you can gently press with your thumb.
I usually advise patients to cradle their arm in their lap or on a pillow, and gently hold the point with minimal pressure while taking deep, slow breaths for 1-2 minutes. This can be done in a standing, seated, or lying supine position.
Whichever position you use, be sure to bring attention to extending and straightening your spine. You can expand your chest, breathing slowly and deeply from your lower abdomen up to your collarbones.
You may feel a strong, stimulating sensation on the point at first. This will usually resolve into a relaxed, grounded sensation after a minute or two. This point facilitates a grounded, clear energy for the heart and mind. It helps us to stay alert and confident, without being overstimulated or anxious.
By using the Shao Fu point, we can gently direct the fire element seasonal Qi to nourish and inspire our heart. We can support the balanced neurological and chemical functions of our physiological systems. That way, we can harmonize any anxious flaring of the fire element Qi, and instead utilize it to further our inspired, heart-centered work in the world!