Location

on the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, level with the angle of the mandible, approximately 1 inch inferior to Wangu (GB 12).

Needling

perpendicular insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 inch

moxa is OK

Actions

Benefits the head and sense organs
Regulates and descends Qi

Signs and Symptoms

headache, neck rigidity, facial swelling, blurring of vision, sudden deafness

Commentary

Tianyou is one of the Window of Heaven Points, a grouping of 10 points mostly around the neck area that specifically treat symptoms of Rebellious Qi as they relate to the stomach, lungs and head.

The neck area is seen as the pathway between the Heart and the Head. It is considered most important that this pathway be kept clear. While it is the Heart that houses the Mind (or Spirit), it is the Brain that allows us to be aware of our spiritual potential. A blockage in the neck area, then, in addition to physical symptoms, may result in psycho-emotional disorders.

Tianyou in combination with other points is able to balance the flow of Qi between the head and the body. It is specifically indicated for sudden deafness, swelling of the face, headache, nasal discharge, and sudden tearing, all symptoms of Qi rebelling upwards to the head.