In Chinese Medicine, Wei qi (qi=energy, pronounced as Chi), also known as Defensive qi, is responsible for protecting us against the invasion of pathogens, therefore, it protects against infections. There are different acupuncture points that can strengthen or boost this defensive qi, protect us against viruses and bacteria and boost our immune system.

Acupressure can be used on these points instead of using needles. Acupressure is a technique that involves the application of pressure, usually with the fingertips, to acupuncture points in the body. The beauty of it is that it can be self- administered and you can use it on your family members as well.

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The following points are some of the most common acupuncture points that can naturally strengthen your resistance to disease. Gently massage or press on them for 30 seconds on each side of the body, twice a day. Make it part of your morning and nighttime routine.

1. Large intestine 11 (LI-11).

You can find this point by flexing the elbow slightly. Follow the elbow crease laterally, the point is located at the end of the elbow crease, on the thumb side. Look for the area that is more tender. LI-11 is a great fever reducer point, however, it has multiple uses, and studies have shown that it also regulates immunity.

2. Large intestine 4 (LI-4).

This point is located between your thumb and index finger, at the highest point of the muscle when you bring the thumb and index fingers together. Again, look for a tender spot. LI-4 is well known for treating headaches, it also strengthens the immune system and is used with LU-7 to treat a cold. This point is contraindicated during pregnancy.

3. Lung 7 (LU-7).

When you make a thumbs-up sign a depression is formed at the base of the thumb, that depression is called the anatomical snuffbox. LU-7 is located two-finger breaths from the anatomical snuffbox on a slight depression between the two tendons. This point stimulates your defensive qi. It is also a great point to treat neck pain.

4. Stomach 36 (ST-36).

Locate this point by placing four fingers at the bottom of your knee cap. The point will be located on the outer side of the shin bone. ST36 is a very powerful point, I use it almost all the time in my patients. It tonifies Wei qi in the body, helps digestion, alleviates allergies and prevents diseases by building up immunity.

5. Spleen 6 (SP-6).

Place four fingers at the highest point of your inner ankle bone (medial malleolus). The point will be located on the posterior border of the bone (tibia). SP-6 boosts the immune system as well. This point is also contraindicated during pregnancy.

Stay well and healthy! and contact me if you have any questions.