GV-4 - Life Gate

命门 - Mìng mén

Point Region: Lower back

GV

Governing Vessel

督脉 - Dū mài

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: On the lower back, on the midline, in the hollow below the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra (L2).

How to Locate:

  1. Find L4, the spinal bump level with the highest points of the hip bones
  2. Count two bumps up to L2
  3. The point is in the hollow just below it
GV-4 (Life Gate) acupressure point location: On the lower back, on the midline, in the hollow below the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra (L2).

How to Apply Pressure

When GV-4 is located, keep the touch gentle, especially if you are frail or older; avoid forceful kneading. Do not use it during a fever, with high blood pressure, or when experiencing signs of excessive heat.

Traditional Indications

In TCM, this point is traditionally used for:

  • Impotence
  • Infertility
  • Lumbar pain
  • Cold limbs
  • Fatigue
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Tinnitus
  • Irregular menstruation

Related Health Concerns

Lower Back PainCold and Flu OnsetFatigueTinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)Menstrual Irregularity

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

Traditionally combined with:

GV-4 + CV-6
Sea of Qi
GV-4 + BL-23
Kidney Shu

Important Precautions

Avoid this point with:

  • Hypertension
  • Acute febrile conditions
  • Excessive heat signs

Take care:

  • Avoid overstimulation in weak or elderly patients