EXT-51 - Peaceful Sleep 1

安眠 - Ān mián 1

Point Region: Head

EXT

Extra Points

其他穴位 - Qítā Xuéwèi

EXT-51, or 'Anmian' (meaning 'Peaceful Sleep'), is a local point located behind the ear. Its name refers to its ability to address issues related to the 'mind' and 'spirit,' as well as a sense of emotional imbalance.

As a local point, Anmian is primarily used for issues related to the emotions and mind, such as anxiety, depression, and a sense of 'stuckness' in the head. It is a go-to point for 'calming' the mind and 'clearing' emotional blockages in the head. By stimulating this point, you can help to restore a sense of peace and tranquility to the mind and body.

Anmian acts as a vital access point to the core of the body, providing a direct and effective way to address blockages and restore a sense of comfort and vitality to the upper body. It's a reminder of the power of local points to provide targeted relief and restore a sense of comfort and vitality to the entire body.

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: Behind the ear, between mastoid and occipital base.

How to Locate:

  1. Feel behind your ear for the bony prominence (mastoid process)
  2. Move toward the base of your skull
  3. Find the depression between the ear and neck
  4. Apply gentle pulsing pressure to this area
Location illustration for Behind the ear, between mastoid and occipital base.

Primary Functions

Nervous System

  • Treats insomnia and sleep disorders
  • Calms the mind and promotes relaxation
  • Reduces anxiety and restlessness
  • Improves sleep quality

Emotional & Mental

  • Relieves stress and mental tension
  • Promotes emotional tranquility
  • Treats depression affecting sleep

Circulatory System

  • Regulates blood pressure for better sleep
  • Improves circulation to the brain

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Headache
  • Palpitations
  • Vertigo
  • Restlessness
  • Sleep disorders

Related Health Concerns

Common Conditions:

Insomnia

Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.

Combined Applications:

EXT-51 + HT-7
Treats insomnia, anxiety, and emotional restlessness
EXT-51 + EXT-2
Calms the Shen and supports sleep regulation

EXT-51 Protocols

Insomnia & Emotional Calm (4 minutes)

  1. Lie down or sit with head supported
  2. Locate 安眠 (EXT-51) — behind the ear, midway between GB-20 and TW-17
  3. Apply gentle pressure for 30 seconds on each side
  4. Massage in circular motions for 1 minute to promote sleep and calm the Shen
  5. Repeat pressure while breathing deeply and relaxing the neck