GB-21 (neck / shoulder tension, rebellious Qi)

Jian Jing (Shoulder Well) is a place many people tend to store their stress. Every day, people come into my office and complain about neck and “shoulder tension.” They really mean the trapezius and levator scapula muscles, not the shoulder joint. I’ve been saying for years that we need a better name for this part of the body, but “noulder” isn’t catching on (for obvious reasons!).

Referred pain and trigger points for the trapezius:

When the traps are unhappy, you can get referred pain (meaning you feel it someplace else) up the back of the neck, over the head, to the eye. It can give you a severe frontal headache.

The trapezius is a big muscle, and it does a lot. Carrying heavy loads (especially unbalanced ones – so carry a small purse and use both straps of your backback!), working with your arms up (I’m talking to you, hair stylists!), or just general hunchiness over a computer… all are common causes of tension.

GB-21 also descends energy, so it’s good for "rebellious rising Qi" causing headaches, dizziness, heartburn, or vomiting.

GB-21 for relieving neck and shoulder tension.

Find GB-21 at the top of the upper thoracic area (aka “noulder”), halfway between the shoulder joint and the spine. Press firmly for 10-15 seconds with a healing intention. NOTE: Do not use GB-21 on anyone pregnant who wants to stay that way!

Also – look into some new ways to release your stress!