In Montpellier, acupuncture points are not only stimulated with needles.
During Tuina massage, Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage, and Chinese foot reflexology, many acupuncture points are worked to promote relaxation, relieve pain, and support vitality.
Discover the main acupuncture points used during these energetic therapies, their functions according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as some simple tips to stimulate them through self-massage at home.
Use of Acupuncture Points in Chinese Massage
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), stimulating acupuncture points helps regulate the circulation of Qi (vital energy), rebalance the entire body, and support the management of certain physical and emotional imbalances.
What is an acupuncture point?
The concept of meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Meridians are an invisible network of energetic channels that run throughout the entire body. They connect the surface to deeper structures and ensure the circulation of Qi (vital energy) and blood.
They form a true communication system between different parts of the body, linking the organs together and contributing to the overall balance of Yin and Yang. They help nourish the tissues—muscles, skin, tendons, bones, and internal organs—and harmonize the body’s functions.
They also signal imbalances in the body and allow for therapeutic action through the stimulation of acupuncture points located along the meridians, either through Chinese massage or with needles.
Functions of Acupuncture Points
Acupuncture points are located along the meridians and are considered gateways for Qi.
They correspond to areas where the energy of the organs emerges at the surface of the body, where imbalances can appear and be rebalanced.
Through their stimulation via Chinese massage, they help restore the circulation of Qi, guide its movement, and re-establish overall bodily harmony.
Each point has a specific action, both local (tension, pain) and more subtle (organs, emotions). In a Traditional Chinese Medicine session in Montpellier, their selection is based on an energetic assessment carried out prior to the massage, ensuring a truly personalized treatment.
Personalized Massage in Montpellier Using Acupuncture Points
During my massages in Montpellier, stimulating acupuncture points allows each session to be adapted to your current state.
Each person presents different imbalances: muscular tension, digestive disorders, fatigue, stress, or anxiety. Chinese massage can also support athletes in recovery, performance, and injury prevention.
Acupuncture points are selected according to your areas of tension, energy levels, and overall balance. This approach allows for a fully personalized energetic massage, where each treated area has a specific purpose.
The aim is to support the body’s natural ability to self-regulate, within a tailored approach.
Acupuncture points for stress and emotional management
Traditional Chinese Medicine is particularly effective in relieving stress in Montpellier and regulating emotions by acting on the circulation of Qi and the body’s overall balance.
Shenmen (HT7) “Spirit Gate”
Localisation
The Shenmen point (Heart 7) is located at the wrist, on the inner side (palmar side), in the wrist crease, on the little finger side.
To locate it, place your hand flat with the palm facing up. The point is found in the hollow on the inner edge of the wrist, just beside the ulna (the forearm bone on the little finger side), in a small area that is sensitive to pressure.
Fonctions
Shenmen (HT7) is a major point in Traditional Chinese Medicine for calming the mind and regulating the Shen (spirit).
It is traditionally used to:
- reduce stress and mental rumination
- calm the Shen and ease anxiety
- promote deeper, more restorative sleep
- regulate excessive emotions
- clear Heart Fire (palpitations, chest discomfort, agitation with insomnia, hypertension, cystitis)
- relieve certain wrist pain and tension (carpal tunnel syndrome, Dupuytren’s contracture)
Self-massage
Apply gentle pressure with your thumb while breathing slowly:
- Massage the point using small circular movements.
- Bring your attention to the release of the mind and emotional tension.
- Stimulate each wrist for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Best practiced in the evening or during periods of stress.
Taichong (LV3) "Great Pass”
Localisation
The Taichong point (Liver 3) is located on the top of the foot, in the space between the big toe and the second toe. It is found by moving slightly upward toward the ankle from the base of the toes, in the hollow between the two metatarsal bones, in an area that is sensitive to pressure.
Fonctions
Taichong (LV3) is a major point in Traditional Chinese Medicine used to promote the smooth flow of Liver Qi and relieve emotional stagnation.
It is traditionally used to:
- calm anger, frustration, and irritability
- reduce stress and emotional tension
- relieve headaches and dizziness linked to Liver Fire (by descending and grounding Yang energy)
- support emotional-related sleep disorders
- relax muscle tension related to stress, and ease pain in the sides of the body as well as certain abdominal distensions
Self-massage
Apply gradual pressure with your thumb. Stimulating this point is not usually very comfortable: sensitivity or even moderate pain is common. In TCM, the more painful the point is when pressed, the more it may indicate a stagnation of Liver Qi.
- Massage the point using slow circular movements.
- Breathe deeply to help circulate Qi.
- Stimulate each foot for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Ideal during periods of stress, irritability, or accumulated tension.
Shenting (GV24) “Courtyard of the Spirit Palace”
Localisation
The Shenting point (Du Mai 24) is located on the anterior top of the skull, along the body’s midline. It is found just behind the hairline, in the center of the forehead, in a slight depression that can be easily felt by palpation.
Fonctions
Shenting (GV24) is an important point in Traditional Chinese Medicine used to regulate and calm the Shen (spirit), quiet mental activity, and support certain symptoms of depression.
It is traditionally used to:
- reduce mental agitation
- ease anxiety and regulate emotional imbalances
- promote mental clarity and concentration
- relieve frontal headaches (headaches)
- support sleep disorders
- relieve certain symptoms associated with depressive states
Self-massage
Place one or two fingers on the point and apply gentle pressure.
- Perform small circular movements.
- Maintain calm, steady breathing.
- Stimulate the point for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Especially useful in cases of mental overload or difficulty concentrating.
Acupuncture Points for Relieving Tension and Pain
Hegu (LI4) “Joining Valley”
Localisation
The Hegu point (Large Intestine 4) is located on the back of the hand, in the hollow between the thumb and index finger. To locate it, bring these two fingers slightly together: the point is found at the highest part of the muscular mound formed between the two metacarpal bones, in an area that is usually sensitive to pressure.
Fonctions
Hegu (LI4) is a key point in Traditional Chinese Medicine, used to strongly promote the circulation of Qi and remove stagnations responsible for excess-type pain.
It is traditionally used to:
- relieve pain (head, face, teeth, and neck)
- relax muscle tension and relieve muscle soreness.
- support the regulation of ENT-related functional disorders (colds, sinus issues) and emotional imbalances associated with shock and trauma.
- dispel external pathogenic factors (wind-cold and wind-heat), particularly in cases of headaches and seasonal winter ailments and clear heat from the body during heatwaves
- This point is generally avoided during pregnancy, as well as in cases of severe fatigue or significant Qi deficiency.
Self-massage
Apply firm pressure with your thumb on the point. A sensation of sensitivity or moderate pain is common.
- Massage the point using slow circular movements.
- Maintain comfortable pressure while breathing calmly.
- Stimulate each hand for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Can be used occasionally in cases of headaches, neck tension, or stress.
- This point is traditionally contraindicated during pregnancy.
Jianjing (GB21) “Shoulder Well”
Localisation
The Jianjing point (Gallbladder 21) is located on the shoulder, midway between the base of the neck and the tip of the shoulder. It is found on the upper part of the trapezius muscle, at the highest point of the shoulder, and is easily sensitive to pressure, especially in cases of tension.
Fonctions
Jianjing (GB21) is a key point in Traditional Chinese Medicine for relieving shoulder and upper back pain, as well as nervous tension related to rising Liver Yang.
It is traditionally used to:
- relieve shoulder and neck tension
- relax the trapezius muscles and upper back
- reduce neck pain related to stress and prolonged postures
- promote the circulation of Qi in the cervico-scapular area
- support stiffness and shoulder blockages
- calm the rising of Liver Yang (irritability, tension, and hypertensive-type manifestations in TCM)
- This point is generally contraindicated during pregnancy.
Self-massage
Place the fingers of the opposite hand on the point and apply gradual pressure. A sensation of moderate pain is common when the area is tense.
- Massage the point using slow circular movements or sustained pressure.
- Gradually relax the shoulders during the stimulation.
- Stimulate each side for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Especially useful in cases of neck tension, shoulder stiffness, or stress.
- This point is traditionally contraindicated during pregnancy.
Yanglingquan (GB34) “Yang Hill Spring”
Localisation
The Yanglingquan point (Gallbladder 34) is located on the outer side of the leg, just below the knee. It is found in a small depression on the outer side of the tibia, below the knee joint, on the upper part of the calf, in an area that is sensitive to pressure.
Fonctions
Yanglingquan (GB34) is known as the “athlete’s point” in Traditional Chinese Medicine, particularly used to care for the muscles and tendons.
It is traditionally used to:
- relax the tendons and muscles (tendinopathies, contractures, and general muscle tension)
- relieve knee and leg pain
- improve joint mobility
- support sciatic nerve neuralgia
- drain the Gallbladder meridian and eliminate Dampness (pain in the flanks, armpits, and temporal headaches)
Self-massage
Apply gradual pressure with your thumb on the point until you feel slight sensitivity. This point is often tender in athletes or in the presence of muscle and tendon tension.
- Massage the point using slow circular movements.
- Stimulate the area for 1 to 2 minutes on each leg.
- Combine self-massage with calm, deep breathing.
- Especially useful in cases of muscle stiffness, tendon pain, or after physical exertion.
Acupuncture points to support energy and vitality
Zusanli (ST36) “Leg Three Miles”
Localisation
The Zusanli point (Stomach 36) is located on the leg, just below the knee. It is found about four finger-widths below the kneecap, and one finger-width to the outside of the tibia, in a muscular area that is sensitive to pressure.
Fonctions
Zusanli (ST36) is a central point in Traditional Chinese Medicine, particularly used to strengthen overall energy and support the digestive system.
It is used to:
- tonify Qi and strengthen overall energy
- improve digestion and harmonize the Stomach and Spleen
- reduce fatigue and lack of vitality
- support digestive disorders (bloating, slow digestion)
- strengthen the body’s natural defenses
Self-massage
Apply gradual pressure with your thumb on the point until you feel slight sensitivity:
- Massage the point using slow circular movements.
- Stimulate each leg for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Breathe calmly to support the circulation of Qi.
- Especially useful during periods of fatigue, low energy, or physical recovery.
Qihai (CV6) “Sea of Qi”
Localisation
The Qihai point (Ren Mai 6) is located on the abdomen, on the midline, about two finger-widths below the navel. It is found in the center of the lower abdomen, in an area that is easily located by palpation.
Fonctions
Qihai (CV6) is an essential point in Traditional Chinese Medicine, considered a major center for tonifying Qi and vitality.
It is often used to:
- improve vitality, combat fatigue and physical exhaustion
- tonify the lower abdomen and support original Qi (Yuan Qi)
- support digestive disorders (constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain) related to Qi deficiency (especially Spleen or Kidney deficiency)
- help with male disorders (impotence, spermatorrhea)
It is also often used in moxibustion to support female disorders, particularly menstrual pain related to internal Cold.
Self-massage
Place two or three fingers on the point located below the navel, then apply gentle and gradual pressure. Stimulation of this point should remain comfortable and pleasant.
- Perform small, slow circular movements.
- Breathe deeply while gradually relaxing the abdomen.
- Stimulate the point for 2 to 3 minutes.
Danzhong (CV17) “Center of Chest Qi”
Localisation
The Danzhong point (Ren Mai 17) is located in the center of the chest, on the midline, at the level of the sternum, halfway between the two nipples. It corresponds to a central area of the chest that is easily located by simple palpation.
Fonctions
Danzhong (CV17) is a fundamental point in Traditional Chinese Medicine, considered the central regulator of the Qi of the chest and respiration.
It is traditionally used to:
- promote smoother breathing
- relieve chest tightness
- harmonize emotions and calm internal agitation
- support stress-related disorders and nervousness
- support the balance of the Heart
- promote relaxation of the diaphragm
Self-massage
Place two fingers at the center of the chest on the point and apply gentle, gradual pressure. Stimulation should remain coordinated with breathing.
- Perform small, slow circular movements.
- Synchronize the stimulation with deep, steady breathing.
- Stimulate the point for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Especially useful in cases of chest tightness, stress, or shallow breathing.
Chinese Medicine treatments in Montpellier
In Montpellier, acupuncture points are used in various Chinese Medicine treatments.
I offer different Chinese massage therapies such as Tuina, Chi Nei Tsang, and Chinese foot reflexology, aimed at rebalancing the body’s energy and improving overall well-being.
Tuina Massage
Tuina massage is a fundamental branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Through various massage techniques (pressures, friction, vibrations, tapping, etc.), sometimes combined with gentle stretches and mobilizations, it promotes the circulation of Qi and supports the body’s natural self-regulation abilities.
Traditionally, this Chinese massage is performed fully clothed or covered with a sheet, in a respectful, professional, and safe setting. It can also be complemented with the application of Chinese cupping therapy to enhance the release of tension and improve energy circulation.
It is particularly indicated for stressed or anxious individuals, as well as athletes seeking to improve recovery, prevent injuries, or release muscle tension.
It is also suitable for anyone looking for a personalized massage in Montpellier, both therapeutic and relaxing, in order to restore balance, mobility, and vitality.
Chi Nei Tsang Massage
Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage is a deep visceral massage derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine. It works directly on the abdominal area, considered the center of emotions and vital energy, in order to release internal tensions and restore the circulation of Qi.
This treatment promotes relaxation of the nervous system, improves digestive comfort, and helps release accumulated emotional burdens (stress, anxiety, mental overload).
It is particularly indicated for people suffering from chronic stress, digestive disorders (bloating, abdominal tension), nervous fatigue, or difficulty letting go.
This massage is intended for anyone in Montpellier seeking a personalized treatment that is both therapeutic, emotional, and energetic, in order to rebalance body and mind.
Chinese Foot Reflexology
Foot reflexology involves stimulating reflex zones located on the feet, corresponding to the body’s different organs and systems, in order to promote the circulation of Qi and restore the overall balance of the body.
This treatment provides deep relaxation, helps release stress and nervous tension, and supports the body’s natural functions. It is also known to improve sleep quality, digestion, and physical recovery.
This massage is intended for anyone in Montpellier wishing to regain lightness, grounding, and vitality through a natural, gentle, and rebalancing treatment.
Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner in Montpellier
I am Yoann, a Chinese Medicine practitioner based in Montpellier. My path has been shaped by a single pursuit: understanding the body as a whole, where the physical, emotional, and energetic aspects come together.
Trained in Paris at the Chuzhen Institute, and further enriched by clinical immersion in China, I learned to work with a deeply respectful approach to the body and its natural rhythms. Today, I welcome each person with this perspective: taking the time to listen, feel, and adapt the treatment to what is truly present.
Through Tuina, Chi Nei Tsang, and Chinese foot reflexology, I support people who are often experiencing physical or mental overload, seeking relief, release, or inner clarity.
My approach is simple and human: to create a space where the body can release, reorganize, and return to its natural balance.
I welcome you to my Chinese massage practice in Montpellier, located near the Bois de Montmaur. There you will discover a calm, authentic, and soothing environment, conducive to relaxation and reconnection with yourself.
Practice address
2146 route de Mende, 34090 Montpellier
(Tram line 5 – CNRS / Zoo de Lunaret stop – Bois de Montmaur parking)
Home visits are available within a 20 km radius of Montpellier, provided that convenient parking is available nearby, the property is easily accessible (with a lift if located on an upper floor), and there is a quiet, clean, and sufficiently spacious area for the session.
Chinese massages do not in any way constitute a medical diagnosis. They do not replace physiotherapy or medical follow-up provided by a general practitioner, specialist, or any other qualified healthcare professional.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is recognized by the WHO, alongside naturopathy and Ayurvedic medicine.
