GB-18 - Support Spirit
承灵 - Chéng líng
Point Region: Head
GB-18, or 'Chengling' (meaning 'Support Spirit'), is a local point located on the side of the head. Its name refers to its ability to address issues related to the 'spirit' or 'shen,' a sense of mental clarity and focus.
As a local point, Chengling is primarily used for issues related to the head and neck, such as a headache, dizziness, 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.
Chengling 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: On the scalp, posterior to GB-17, in line with the pupil.
How to Locate:
- Look straight ahead in a mirror
- Locate the center of your pupil
- Draw an imaginary line straight up from your pupil
- Move back along your scalp about 5 finger widths from your hairline
- The point is on your scalp approaching the crown area

Primary Functions
Nervous System
- Treats chronic headaches and migraines
- Calms mental agitation and restlessness
- Improves sleep quality and insomnia
- Reduces nervous tension
Emotional & Mental
- Calms the spirit and emotions
- Reduces anxiety and stress
- Promotes mental stability
Liver & Gallbladder System
- Harmonizes liver qi
- Supports emotional regulation
- Promotes clear thinking
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Headache
- Epilepsy
- Dizziness
- Anxiety
- Mental fog
- Poor concentration
- Emotional instability
- Agitation
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
GB-18 Protocols
N/A