As highlighted in the Shiatsu blog, acupressure is a time-honoured healing art, grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Acupressure, as opposed to acupuncture’s needle-based approach, employs hands, fingers, or thumbs to apply gentle pressure on specific body points known as acupoints which align with energy channels (meridians) through which Qi, the body’s essential life energy, circulates. By activating these acupoints, acupressure promotes free movement of Qi, fostering relaxation, the easing of discomfort, and overall health boost.
Liver 3 point (also known as LV3) is located on the dorsum of the foot, in the hollow distal to the junction of the first and second metatarsal bone. Feel for a slight hollow or tender spot between the bones.
In TCM, the liver governs the smooth flow of Qi and blood, storing blood and regulating emotions. LV3 is closely related to the liver and a dynamic point for moving energy. LV3 is what we call a “Shu-Stream” point, one of five acupoints that regulate the flow and upward movement of Qi. Stimulating LV3 promotes energy flow, clearing the head, eyes and stagnant energy that restricts the open mind. It’s often used for headaches, dizziness, irregular menstruation or painful urinary dysfunctions. Additionally, since the Liver is associated with anger, activating LV3 can relieve linked emotions such as stress, irritability and frustration.
As highlighted in Veet Allan Zen Shiatsu book Ocean of Streams (p. 97, Liver Section) or in Carola Beresford-Cooke book Shiatsu Theory and Practice (p.189, Chapter 13)
To stimulate this point, press with your thumb or finger in a circular motion, 30 seconds to 2 minutes per foot. Apply firm, steady pressure and expect mild soreness that eases as Qi moves.
Key benefits of stimulating LV 3 are:
Women’s Health
- Regulates menstrual cycles
- Eases cramps
- Helps with irregular periods
Digestive Support
- Helps with nausea
- Treats poor appetite, or bloating
- Treats constipation as well as diarrhoea
Head & Eyes
- Reduces headaches, migraines, or dizziness
- Soothes red, itchy, or blurry eyes
The power of point pairing: Liver 3 and Large Intestine 4 (LI4)
Point pairing is a widely used acupressure method that focuses on activating two or more pressure points at the same time to amplify the therapeutic effects. Combining LV3 and LI4 is a particularly powerful match, merging the tree element (Liver’s growth) and metal (Large Intestine’s release) element. This rare crossing of element synergy bridges spring’s expansion with autumn’s refinement, best for treating general pain and stress. The pair support blood flow, warm cold hands and feet, ease numbness and relieve headaches. However, avoid pairing these during pregnancy without expert guidance, for the intense movement of Qi and blood, following their stimulation, can cause harm to the baby.
Try This in Spring!
Tap into Spring with LV3 for a powerful energy boost. Like a fresh spring wind breaking through winter’s stillness, release stagnation and awaken the body’s flow of Qi and warmth.
By Hana Starace, Certified Shiatsu & Nutritional Practitioner