P. Sze 
Wake Up Clear-Headed with These Effective Acupressure Points
Morning headaches can set the wrong tone for your entire day. If you find yourself waking up with that familiar pressure or pounding sensation, incorporating acupressure headache techniques into your morning routine may offer natural and gentle relief. We consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a seasoned TCM therapist from Japan, to discover how specific acupressure points can be used right after waking up to help ease those persistent morning headaches. For those new to acupressure, we also recommend exploring this comprehensive guide to acupressure techniques, benefits, and side effects.
According to Ms. Sogawa, applying pressure to five specific acupoints—Tianzhu (BL-10), Fengchi (GB-20), Hegu (LI-4), Baihui (GV-20), and Jianjing (GB-21)—can significantly reduce morning headaches, especially when done while warming the body, such as during a bath. Following this with some gentle stretching can further enhance the benefits by releasing residual fatigue.
Let’s explore these five key acupressure points and how to activate them during your morning ritual.
Tianzhu (BL-10) – Soothing Neck Tension to Relieve Headaches
Located at the base of the skull on either side of the spine, Tianzhu (BL-10) is one of the most effective acupoints for reducing tension-related headaches.
How to apply:
- Sit or stand upright and place your thumbs on the hollows at the back of your neck.
- Apply firm but gentle pressure in a circular motion for 1–2 minutes.
- Focus on deep breathing as you massage.
Benefits:
- Releases neck stiffness
- Improves blood circulation to the head
- Alleviates tension headaches and dizziness
Use this point especially if your headaches are accompanied by neck pain or stiffness.
Fengchi (GB-20) – Clearing Wind and Relieving Pain
Fengchi is located just below the base of the skull in the grooves between the two neck muscles, behind the ears.
How to apply:
- Use your thumbs or index fingers to press into these points.
- Hold and massage in a circular motion for 1–2 minutes.
Benefits:
- Helps clear “wind” according to TCM, which is often associated with headache onset
- Reduces stress-related tension
- Promotes a clearer headspace in the morning
Ideal for headaches triggered by stress, weather changes, or poor sleep posture.
Hegu (LI-4) – The Go-To Point for General Pain Relief
Also known as the “command point” for the head and face, Hegu (LI-4) is found on the back of the hand between the thumb and index finger.
How to apply:
- Use the opposite thumb to press and massage this spot for about a minute on each hand.
- It might feel slightly tender—that’s a good sign you’re in the right place.
Benefits:
- Relieves all types of headaches, especially frontal and sinus headaches
- Promotes energy flow and relieves overall tension
- Supports digestive balance, which can indirectly affect head pain
This point is useful for those who often experience headaches due to stress, fatigue, or irregular eating habits.
Baihui (GV-20) – Calming the Mind and Uplifting Energy
Located at the crown of the head, Baihui is a powerful point in Traditional Chinese Medicine known to regulate yang energy and calm the spirit.
How to apply:
- Use your fingertips to gently press or tap the top of your head.
- Hold for 1–2 minutes while practicing slow, deep breathing.
Benefits:
- Relieves headaches, especially those caused by overthinking or poor sleep
- Calms anxiety and mental fog
- Helps uplift energy and mood
Best used in quiet moments, perhaps after a shower or before stretching.
Jianjing (GB-21) – Releasing Shoulder Tension and Improving Circulation
Jianjing is located on the shoulder muscle, midway between the base of the neck and the outer shoulder.
How to apply:
- Use your fingers or a massage tool to knead this area for 1–2 minutes.
- Apply gentle pressure, especially if this area feels tight.
Benefits:
- Eases shoulder and upper back tension that contributes to headaches
- Enhances circulation to the upper body
- Promotes relaxation after sleep
This point is particularly helpful if your sleep posture contributes to stiffness or if you carry stress in your shoulders.
Tips for Incorporating These Points into Your Morning Routine
To maximize the effects of these acupressure for headaches points, Ms. Sogawa recommends:
- Applying pressure while warming the body – Do this during or just after a warm shower or bath to enhance circulation and muscle relaxation.
- Following up with stretches – Gentle neck, shoulder, and back stretches help flush out fatigue-related toxins and tension.
- Staying hydrated – Drinking warm water in the morning can support the body’s detox process and improve overall effectiveness.
- Consistency – Making this a daily habit can lead to long-term improvement in headache frequency and intensity.
Final Thoughts
Morning headaches are more than just an inconvenience—they’re a signal from your body. With the help of Traditional Chinese Medicine and these five strategic acupressure points, you can respond to that signal naturally and effectively. Incorporating these techniques into your daily routine doesn’t take much time but can offer lasting relief. As always, for personalized advice, consider consulting with a licensed TCM practitioner like Ms. Mai Sogawa.
For more guidance on using acupressure in your wellness routine, check out our ultimate guide to acupressure techniques.
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