ST-21 - Beam Gate

梁门 - Liáng mén

Point Region: Upper abdomen

ST

Stomach Meridian

足阳明胃经 - Zú Yángmíng Wèi Jīng

ST-21 Liangmen, meaning 'Beam Gate,' is a point that regulates Qi and alleviates pain. Located on the abdomen, it is a key digestive point for addressing a wide range of issues that are caused by stagnation or excess heat in the abdomen. Its name, 'Beam Gate,' alludes to its ability to bring a sense of order and harmony to the body's entire system.

Think of Liangmen as a point that helps to 'open the gates' to your digestion. It's invaluable for addressing issues like indigestion, bloating, and a feeling of 'stuckness' in the abdomen. By regulating Qi and alleviating pain, it helps to restore a sense of ease and freedom.

By regulating Qi and alleviating pain, ST-21 helps to restore a sense of balance and inner peace. It's a point that reminds us that our true power comes from a well-regulated and harmonious body.

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: On the upper abdomen, 4 cun above the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline, level with CV-12.

How to Locate:

  1. Find your navel and measure 4 finger-widths up
  2. From this point, move 2 finger-widths to the side
  3. This is typically halfway between your navel and breastbone
  4. The point is on the side of your middle abdomen
Location illustration for On the upper abdomen, 4 cun above the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline, level with CV-12.

Primary Functions

Digestive System

  • Treats stomach pain and gastric disorders
  • Relieves chronic gastritis and ulcers
  • Improves stomach function and motility
  • Reduces stomach acid and heartburn

Emotional & Mental

  • Reduces worry and overthinking affecting stomach
  • Calms digestive upset from emotional stress
  • Improves mental clarity through better digestion

Immune & Energy System

  • Strengthens stomach qi and digestive fire
  • Improves overall energy through better digestion
  • Supports immune function via gut health

Musculoskeletal System

  • Relieves upper abdominal tension and pain
  • Treats stomach muscle spasms

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Indigestion
  • Duodenal ulcers
  • Chest discomfort
  • Stomach problems
  • Digestive disorders
  • Gastritis

Related Health Concerns

Common Conditions:

N/A

Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.

ST-21 Protocols

N/A

Important Precautions

  • Pregnancy
  • Severe gastric bleeding
  • Acute intestinal obstruction