In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the human body is believed to contain a network of energy channels known as meridians. Along these meridians, there are many pressure points that are believed to be areas where the body’s energy can be manipulated for healing and other purposes. One of the most important pressure points in traditional Chinese medicine is the Lao Gong point, which is located in the center of the palm. You can find it by bending your middle finger inward to touch your palm; where the tip of your finger makes contact is where the Lao Gong point is located.

The Lao Gong point, also known as the Palace of Labor or the Palace of Vitality, is believed to be a powerful point for regulating energy flow throughout the body. It is believed to be associated with the heart and pericardium meridians, which are associated with emotions, circulation, and overall vitality.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the Lao Gong point is used for a variety of purposes. It is believed to be useful for regulating emotions and reducing stress, as well as for improving circulation and overall health. It is also believed to be a useful point for stimulating the flow of energy throughout the body, which can help to relieve pain and promote healing.

One of the most common uses of the Lao Gong point is found in acupuncture. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points along the body’s meridians. By stimulating these points, acupuncturists aim to promote the flow of energy through the body and relieve a variety of symptoms.

In acupuncture, the Lao Gong point is often used to treat emotional imbalances, such as anxiety and depression. It is also used to relieve physical symptoms, such as chest pain, palpitations, and insomnia. Acupuncturists may also use the Lao Gong point to treat digestive issues, such as indigestion and bloating, as well as menstrual cramps and other gynecological issues.

In addition to acupuncture, the Lao Gong point can also be stimulated through acupressure. Acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points along the body’s meridians in order to promote healing and relieve symptoms. By applying pressure to the Lao Gong point, practitioners can promote energy flow throughout the body and relieve stress, anxiety, and other emotional imbalances.

Spring Forest Qigong makes much use of the palm as a healing vehicle. In Master Chun-yi Lin’s book, Head-to-Toe Healing, there are around 17 healing techniques that involve the palms (7 of which are cupping techniques, and at least 10 of which are purely using the palms). Technique 41 (Palms, massage) has the practitioner specifically massage the Lao Gong point. We have other exercises, such as the Thunder Palms Qigong movement, that train the ability to send out healing energy through the palms.

Our hands are very sensitive to energy, and consequently it is quite productive to practice these types of exercises, building upon this sensitivity.