The world’s population is aging, and how we age matters more than ever. The World Health Organization’s Decade of Healthy Ageing 2020–2030 initiative highlights the global focus on building support systems for the increasing number of older adults and extending health span—the years we live in good health and mobility.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long emphasized this concept, and few acupoints embody it more clearly than Nourishing the Aged (Yang Lao, SI6), a frequently used acupoint on the wrist. Whether you’re looking to maintain your vitality or support aging loved ones, it’s a point worth knowing and using.
Yang Lao: An Ancient Point With Modern Relevance
Yang Lao is first mentioned in the “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing” (“The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion”), one of the earliest comprehensive texts on the foundational principles of TCM. It is classified as a Xi-Cleft point, a type of acupoint where vital energy and blood accumulate more intensely. These points are known for their strong, quick-acting therapeutic effects, particularly for acute pain and severe energetic imbalances.Yang Lao is crucial for promoting a healthy flow of energy through the Small Intestine meridian, which runs from the little finger to the head. This acupoint is valued for treating conditions associated with aging, such as blurred vision, hearing loss, shoulder stiffness, joint inflexibility, and memory issues. Additionally, it is often used to aid recovery from overexertion or intense physical strain.
In clinical TCM practice, Yang Lao is frequently paired with its neighboring point, Yang Valley (SI5), as the two work synergistically to stimulate yang qi, the body’s active energy. Their close proximity makes these points convenient for both self-care and clinical treatment.
Scientific Evidence of Brain Activation
Modern research is beginning to illuminate the neurological effects of acupoints. One functional magnetic resonance imaging study examined how acupuncture at Yang Lao (SI6) and Shenmen (HT7) influenced brain activity in healthy volunteers.Twelve participants underwent brain scans before and during acupuncture stimulation. Researchers noted distinct sensations during needling that indicated proper point activation and tracked the results. Needling Yang Lao activated the left inferior parietal lobule and right inferior frontal gyrus—areas of the brain involved in motor coordination, attention, and cognitive control. These findings suggest that Yang Lao can play a measurable role in neurological regulation, an essential aspect of preserving function as we age.
This type of research helps bridge the gap between traditional practice and modern understanding, showing how stimulation of acupoints may influence pain relief, brain health, and adaptability.
How to Locate and Stimulate Yang Lao:
Yang Lao is located on the back outer edge of the forearm, in the depression between the two forearm bones at the wrist. A more intuitive way to find it is as follows: With your palm facing downward and parallel to the floor, place your finger on the bony bump on the outer side of your wrist. Gently rotate your palm to face you, and your finger will naturally land near the Yang Lao acupoint. Lightly press around the area to identify a point that provides distinct sensations of soreness or tenderness, as these indicate the presence of the acupoint.How to Stimulate the Yang Lao
There are a few easy ways to activate Yang Lao:- Press: Press firmly for five to six seconds, rest for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to gently massage in small circles for the same duration as above.
- Herbal patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for long-lasting stimulation.
Precautions
Avoid using this point if the surrounding area is bruised, swollen, or injured. Those with sensitive skin should review patch ingredients carefully to avoid harsh artificial ingredients that can cause irritation.A Holistic Edge
Medical advances are extending lives, but the quality of those years depends on more than just medications. Consistent acupressure can provide a gentle, time-tested way to support vision, mobility, and clarity, especially as we age. Easily accessible and highly effective, Yang Lao offers preventative and therapeutic value. Try it for yourself, or offer it to someone who could benefit from a holistic approach to aging well.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
