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
ST-21 acupressure point location: 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