GV-11 - Spirit Path

神道 - Shén dào

Point Region: Upper back

GV

Governing Vessel

督脉 - Dū mài

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: On the back, on the midline, in the hollow below the spinous process of the fifth thoracic vertebra (T5).

How to Locate:

  1. Find T7, the spinal bump level with the lower tips of the shoulder blades (standing, arms by your sides)
  2. Count two bumps up to T5
  3. The point is in the hollow just below it
GV-11 (Spirit Path) acupressure point location: On the back, on the midline, in the hollow below the spinous process of the fifth thoracic vertebra (T5).

How to Apply Pressure

When GV-11 is identified, use only gentle fingertip contact and skip it if the area is injured. Never use acupressure for chest pain, suspected heart problems, or an acute psychiatric crisis; seek appropriate urgent care.

Traditional Indications

In TCM, this point is traditionally used for:

  • Palpitations
  • Cough
  • Anxiety
  • Emotional instability
  • Insomnia

Related Health Concerns

Panic AttackCold and Flu OnsetAnxietyInsomnia

Select a point to see its location, how to find it, and its traditional uses.

Important Precautions

Avoid this point with:

  • Acute myocardial infarction
  • Severe heart conditions
  • Acute psychiatric episodes

Take care:

  • Seek immediate medical attention for chest pain or heart symptoms
  • Avoid during acute anxiety or panic attacks
  • Use very gentle pressure for cardiac conditions