A Helpful Pressure Point for Summer Heat: LI11, or Qu Chi

Now that summer is here, many people are starting to feel the effects of heat: fatigue, irritability, poor sleep, headaches, heavy sweating, thirst, or a general feeling of being “overheated.” From a Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, perspective, summer is closely connected with the element of Fire and the Heart system. It is a season of activity, warmth, movement, and expansion-- but when the heat becomes too intense, the body can easily lose its balance.

One commonly used acupressure point in Traditional Chinese Medicine for clearing heat is LI11, also known as Qu Chi. In TCM, this point is often used when the body feels hot, flushed, irritated, or inflamed. It may be especially helpful during summer when the heat makes you feel restless, sweaty, or uncomfortable.

LI11 is located at the outer end of the elbow crease.

• To find it, bend your elbow. Look for the crease that forms on the outside of the elbow, near the bony area. The point is at the end of that crease.

• To stimulate LI11, use your thumb or finger to apply steady pressure. Press firmly, but not painfully, and massage the area in small circles for about 1 to 3 minutes on each arm. You may feel soreness, heaviness, or mild tenderness, but it should not feel sharp or uncomfortable.

  
  

From a TCM perspective, LI11 is used to help “clear heat” and support the body’s natural cooling process. It can be a simple self-care point to try when you feel overheated from warm weather, stress, or too much activity.

For best results, acupressure should be combined with basic summer care: drink water, rest in a cooler place, avoid strong sun, and choose lighter meals. Acupressure is supportive, but it should not replace proper care for heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

If you feel dizzy, confused, faint, very weak, nauseous, or your symptoms do not improve after cooling down, seek medical help right away.