KI-6 - Shining Sea
照海 - Zhào hǎi
Point Region: Foot
KI-6, or 'Zhaohai' (meaning 'Shining Sea'), is a powerful point located on the inner ankle. It is the 'Confluent' point of the Yin Qiao Mai (Yin Motility Vessel), one of the Eight Extraordinary Vessels. Its name, 'Shining Sea,' refers to its ability to bring light and clarity to the body's deeper systems, much like a beacon shining across a vast sea.
As a 'Confluent' point, Zhaohai has a wide-ranging effect on the entire body, especially on the Yin Qiao vessel, which governs movement and balance. It is a master point for treating insomnia, anxiety, and throat issues, as it helps to calm the spirit and nourish the throat and lungs. Think of it as a key that can unlock the body's deepest reserves of Yin energy, bringing a sense of calm and restfulness.
This point is particularly useful for those who feel energetically 'burned out' or 'dried up.' By stimulating this point, you can help to restore the body's nourishing fluids and calm the mind, bringing a sense of peace and tranquility. It's a reminder that true rest and renewal come from the depths of our being, just as the 'shining sea' holds the mysteries of the deep.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: Located on the medial ankle, just inferior to the malleolus.
How to Locate:
- Find the bony bump on the inner side of your ankle
- Move directly below this bump
- Feel for the depression just under the ankle bone
- The point is in this hollow below your ankle bone
Primary Functions
Urinary & Kidney System
- Nourishes kidney yin and essence
- Treats chronic kidney deficiency
- Regulates fluid balance
Reproductive System
- Treats irregular menstruation
- Addresses reproductive yin deficiency
- Supports female fertility
- Treats menopausal symptoms
Nervous System
- Calms the mind and reduces insomnia
- Treats nervous exhaustion
- Improves memory and concentration
Respiratory System
- Treats chronic cough and asthma
- Moistens dry lung conditions
Emotional & Mental
- Reduces anxiety and restlessness
- Strengthens mental resilience
- Treats emotional instability
Throat & Voice
- Treats chronic sore throat
- Improves voice quality
- Moistens throat dryness
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Insomnia
- Sore throat
- Irregular menstruation
- Anxiety
- Sleep problems
- Throat pain
- Reproductive problems
- Nervousness
- Menstrual disorders
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
KI-6 Protocols
Sleep Support & Yin Nourishment (4 minutes)
- Sit with ankle accessible and relaxed
- Locate KI-6 (below the medial malleolus, in the groove)
- Apply gentle pressure for 30 seconds on each side
- Massage in circular motions for 1 minute to support restful sleep and hormonal balance
- Repeat pressure while exhaling slowly and softening the chest
Important Precautions
- Pregnancy
- Recent ankle surgery
- Severe throat infections