GB-41 - Foot Governor of Tears
足临泣 - Zú lín qì
Point Region: Foot
GB-41, or 'Zulinqi' (meaning 'Foot Governor of Tears'), is a key point in the entire acupressure system. Located on the side of the foot, its name refers to its ability to address issues related to the 'foot' and 'tears,' as well as a sense of emotional release.
As a local point, Zulinqi is primarily used for issues related to the foot and ankle, such as a stiff foot, a sore ankle, and a sense of 'weakness' in the lower body. It is a go-to point for 'tonifying' the Kidney and 'strengthening' the body as a whole. By stimulating this point, you can help to restore a sense of balance and harmony to the entire body.
Zulinqi 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 lower body.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: On the dorsum of the foot, in the depression between the 4th and 5th metatarsals.
How to Locate:
- Look at the top of your foot
- Locate the 4th and 5th toes
- Follow these toes back toward your ankle
- Find the depression between the long bones (metatarsals)
- This is GB-41, between the 4th and 5th foot bones
Primary Functions
Liver & Gallbladder System
- Harmonizes liver and gallbladder qi
- Promotes smooth energy circulation
- Supports decision-making and planning
- Clears emotional blockages
Nervous System
- Treats headaches and migraines
- Calms nervous tension
- Improves mental clarity
Musculoskeletal System
- Relieves foot and ankle pain
- Treats lateral foot disorders
- Improves foot mobility
Eye & Vision System
- Treats eye disorders
- Relieves visual disturbances
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Irregular menstruation
- Headache
- Breast pain
- Emotional release
- Menstrual cramps
- Migraine
- Hormonal imbalance
- Temporal headache
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
GB-41 Protocols
Lateral Headache & Foot Tension Relief (3 minutes)
- Sit with feet accessible and relaxed
- Locate GB-41 (in the depression distal to the junction of the 4th and 5th metatarsals)
- Apply firm pressure for 30 seconds on each foot
- Massage in circular motions for 1 minute to ease lateral tension
- Repeat pressure while breathing deeply