KI-23 - Spirit Seal
神封 - Shén fēng
Point Region: Chest
KI-23, or 'Shenfeng' (meaning 'Spirit Seal'), is a point located on the chest. Its name, 'Spirit Seal,' refers to its ability to 'seal' the spirit and 'calm' the mind, much like a seal that can be used to secure a container.
As a local point, Shenfeng is primarily used for issues related to the chest and heart, such as a cough, asthma, and chest pain. It is a go-to point for 'calming' the mind and 'clearing' emotional blockages in the chest. By stimulating this point, you can help to release deep-seated tension and restore a sense of peace and tranquility.
Shenfeng acts as a vital access point to the heart and lungs, providing a direct and effective way to address blockages and restore a sense of balance and harmony. It's a reminder of the power of local points to provide targeted relief and restore a sense of comfort and vitality to the upper body.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: On the chest, level with the 4th intercostal space, lateral to the sternum.
How to Locate:
- Find the 4th space between ribs (just above nipple level)
- Move about half a finger-width to the side from your breastbone
- This is on your upper chest
- The point is in this rib space lateral to your breastbone
Primary Functions
Urinary & Kidney System
- Nourishes kidney essence and spirit
- Treats kidney deficiency patterns
- Strengthens kidney-heart connection
Respiratory System
- Treats chronic cough and asthma
- Regulates lung qi
- Addresses chest oppression
- Treats breathing difficulties
Nervous System
- Calms the spirit and mind
- Treats anxiety and restlessness
- Improves mental clarity
- Addresses nervous exhaustion
Emotional & Mental
- Treats depression and melancholy
- Strengthens emotional resilience
- Reduces mental agitation
- Protects the spirit
Circulatory System
- Regulates heart rhythm
- Treats chest pain
- Supports cardiovascular function
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Cough
- Asthma
- Chest pain
- Mastitis
- Respiratory problems
- Breast problems
- Chest tightness
- Breathing difficulty
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
KI-23 Protocols
N/A
Important Precautions
- Acute breast infections
- Breast cancer
- Recent chest surgery
- Severe respiratory distress