The Lung is a Yin meridian, the first of the two meridians associated with the Metal element. This meridian governs a bodily network that involves the respiratory system, skin, and the body’s boundary with the external environment, that regulates breathing, fluid distribution, immune defence, and receiving clear, vital energy.
Among the points on the Lung Meridian, LU1 is the most significant because it is a Front Mu point. Front Mu points are acupuncture points located on the chest and abdomen. These points are highly effective in treating acute and chronic organ disorders, particularly those involving pain, inflammation, and stagnation.
LU1 is also known for its ability to directly influence chest Qi, support emotional release, and link breath with vitality. It is specifically responsible for opening the chest, and facilitating the transformation of grief into inspiration. When this energy flow is blocked, it can lead to chest tightness, suppressed sadness, dry cough, or a sense of emotional heaviness and lack of purpose.
LU1 is located below the clavicle, in the gap between the rib 1 and 2. Slide your finger from the middle of the collarbone down and out until you feel a soft dip just below the bone. Stimulate this point by gently massaging it with your finger in circular motions, for 30 seconds.
To explore the functions of the lung and discover other key therapeutic points along its meridian, take a look at The Psyche in Chinese Medicine: Treatment of Emotional and Mental Disharmonies with Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs by Giovanni Maciocia, Chapter 16 of Shiatsu Theory and Practice by Carola Beresford-Cooke, or for total beginners and self-care, The Acupuncture Point Book by Chris Jarmey & Ilaira Bouratinos
Key benefits of stimulating LU1:
Illness and external pathogens
- Eases shortness of breath, asthma, and shallow breathing
- Clears coughs: dry cough and cough with phlegm
- Congestion of the nose and through or swelling of the face
Body pains and tension
- Relieves shoulder tension especially when linked to a cough or stress
- Relieves tightness, fullness or pain in the chest
Emotional stress
- Releases grief and sadness
- Boosts inspiration and clarity
The power of point pairing: Lung 1 (LU1) and Lung 7 (LU7)
In TCM, LU1 and LU7 are the most famous Lung meridian duo. They act much like a lock and key for the chest, breath, emotions, and head/neck issues. Together, they spread and descend Lung Qi, release grief and clear the upper body.
LU1 as the Front Mu point of the Lung treats excess conditions like phlegm. Rather than LU7 as the Luo-Connecting point is helping with skin disorders, which are the result of chronically weak or stagnant Metal energy.
This November
As we settle into the crisp rhythm of Autumn, the Metal element invites us to refine, release, and rediscover clarity. Work with LU1 to open the chest; let grief flow through and awaken a steady sense of inspiration and purpose.
By Hana Starace, Certified Shiatsu & Nutritional Practitioner