Sp6 Acu Point - A glimpse into this magical Energy point

Have you heard of Sp6 Acu-Point ?

It is certainly fashionable to use in many trainings these days and for good reasons. It is an amazing point to include for many situations.

We thought that it might be helpful for all therapists to see how to locate this energy point accurately, understand it a little more and how to use it carefully and effectively.

Although it is often included in courses, the information, location and understanding of Sp.6 can vary.

Descriptions are often taken from modern versions of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) literature and books which have been written for the Western market.

People offer and include this major point, (and other Acu-points), in a variety of modalities sometimes they are not qualified in any of the Chinese disciplines, i.e. acupressure, acupuncture and the martial arts, so the understanding of the energy point can be lost.

It may surprise people to know that many of the Acu-points can be used to harm, then the opposite can also be gained, they can be used to help. It is the opposite side of the same coin.

The key is to have the knowledge of how to use them and to have an understanding of their characteristics, potency and potential. 'Energy points are a universe within a universe'

So why is this energy point known as Sp.6?

Basically, it is a major point on the Spleen Chi energy pathway (or meridian, which is the French name), this Yin pathway has 21 points

Sp.6 is far more than a Spleen point and only named as such due to it being on the superficial position of the Spleen pathway through the leg and that it is the 6th Spleen point along the pathway.

More importantly, is to know it by is name rather than its given number, as it gives you more information of its characteristics.

Three Yin Crossing

Sp.6 It's Western translated name is ‘Three Yin Crossing’ which in Pinyin it is known as San Yin Jiao. Its name reflects where three important Yin energies converge, they are Kidney energy, Liver energy and Spleen energy.

Now we can see that there needs to be respect when working with both of the Sp.6 Acu-points (there are 2 as they are bi lateral on the legs), as we are not working with Spleen energy alone!

Each of the 3 Yin Crossing energies are very potent and have many relationships throughout a person, along with the Chi (Qi) properties it can also influence imbalances on each level of existence, Physical, Emotional, Mental and Spiritual.

There is so much more knowledge to be shared about Three Yin Crossing/ Sp.6 , it would be a lengthy blog to cover it all here but I am sure that you will agree that it becomes very exciting when information is revealed. There are infinite layers to unfold when learning Chinese medicine with Chi Medics.

The location of Three Yin Crossing / Sp6

Measure 2 Cun/4 fingers above the inner anklebone, the three Yin Crossing point is above the fourth finger, under the bone. Classical Chinese measurements are given in Cun. (Please note – the Western interpretation is sometimes measured in inches or centimetres, this is not Chinese or precise for locating.)

Three Yin Crossing / Sp6 Location - 2 Cun /four fingers above the medial anklebone and under the bone

How to use Three Yin Crossing respectfully

3 Yin Crossing can be very tender, please be aware that there are many reasons for this and can be especially sharp: during menses, in some post operative situations, after long haul travel, during depression and during menopause.

Caution During Pregnancy -please note -In Classical Chinese Medicine it advises not to Stimulate Sp6 during pregnancy, in Chi medics we explore the ways that it can be used and how to use it throughout pregnancy, in our main training.

So, once we have located it correctly, how can we use it safely?

This is easy, we offer you a part of the Chi Medics approach, use this technique when using Three Yin Crossing, (Sp.6):

Simply locate the points with your thumbs or fingertips very gently and balance both sides together by holding, use no pressure please and work with the persons out breaths to the count of four, then release.

This is a Chi Medics Balancing technique. Gently connect to both Three Yin Crossing /Sp6 points hold with no pressure for 4 of the receivers out-breaths then let go.

Our thanks to Mrs P R Lewis for permission to use the images

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our best wishes always

Sharon and Moss

Moss and Sharon have a deep understanding along with 40 yrs of clinical experience to share with therapists. If you love Chinese Medicine, take a stroll around Chi Medics Therapy, from beginners through to the seasoned learners it will bring a clear invaluable layer into your modality.

And rest assured that everything has been carefully considered, used in clinic and affords the best outcome for your clients.

From simple balances to use to conclude your body or energy work, through to the full professional Chi Medics Qualification – we have it covered with inspirational courses which contain effective information.

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We would like to ensure that our readers realise that our Chi Medics knowledge and information should not take the place of Medical Advice.