The acupoints for treating insomnia on the trunk are mainly distributed on the back, chest and abdomen. By stimulating these acupoints, the functions of the internal organs can be regulated and the meridians and qi and blood can be unblocked, thereby improving the symptoms of insomnia. The following is the specific analysis of acupoints:

First, acupoints on the back

Xinshu Point

It is located 1.5 cun lateral to the spinous process of the fifth thoracic vertebra. The Xinshu point is the back-shu point of the heart. It can calm the mind and soothe the spirit, and regulate heart qi. It is suitable for insomnia caused by excessive heart fire or restlessness of the heart spirit. Massaging or moxibustion this acupoint can relieve symptoms such as palpitations and frequent dreams.

Ganshu point

It is located 1.5 cun lateral to the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra. The Ganshu point is the back-shu point of the liver. It can soothe the liver and regulate qi, clear liver heat and reduce internal heat. It is suitable for insomnia caused by liver depression transforming into internal heat or liver Yang hyperactivity. Stimulating this acupoint can relieve symptoms such as irritability, anger and difficulty falling asleep.

Pishu point

It is located 1.5 cun lateral to the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra. The Pishu point is the back-shu point of the spleen. It can strengthen the spleen and stomach, tonify qi and nourish blood. It is suitable for insomnia caused by deficiency of both heart and spleen. Massaging this acupoint can improve accompanying symptoms such as sallow complexion and loss of appetite.

Shenshu point

It is located 1.5 cun lateral to the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra. The Shenshu point is the back-shu point of the kidney. It can nourish Yin and tonify the kidney, harmonize Yin and Yang, and is suitable for insomnia caused by insufficiency of kidney Yin or disharmony between the heart and the kidney. Stimulating this point can relieve symptoms such as soreness and weakness in the waist and knees, tinnitus and forgetfulness.

Ge Shu point

It is located 1.5 cun lateral to the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra. The Ge Shu acupoint is the convergence point of blood. It can promote blood circulation, remove blood stasis and harmonize qi and blood. It is suitable for insomnia caused by qi and blood stasis. Massaging this acupoint can alleviate symptoms such as chest tightness and flank pain.

Second, acupoints on the chest

Shanzhong Point

It is located on the anterior midline, level with the fourth intercostal space (the midpoint of the line connecting the two nipples). The Zhongfu point is known as the meeting point of qi. It can broaden the chest, regulate qi, calm the mind and soothe the spirit. It is suitable for insomnia caused by liver qi stagnation or insufficiency of heart qi. Massaging this acupoint can relieve symptoms such as chest tightness and shortness of breath.

Shenfeng Point

It is located at the fourth intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline. The Shenfeng acupoint belongs to the Kidney Meridian. It can calm the mind and soothe the spirit, regulate qi and relieve pain. It is suitable for insomnia caused by disharmony between the heart and kidney or distension and fullness in the chest and hypochondrium. Stimulating this acupoint can improve symptoms such as palpitations, insomnia and frequent dreams.

Third, abdominal acupoints

Zhongwan Point

It is located on the anterior midline, 4 cun above the umbilicus. The Zhongwan acupoint is the gathering point of the stomach. It can harmonize the stomach, strengthen the spleen, relieve upward movement and stop vomiting. It is suitable for insomnia caused by disharmony of the spleen and stomach. Massaging this acupoint can relieve symptoms such as distension and fullness in the epigastrium, belching and acid reflux.

Qihai acupoint

It is located on the anterior midline, 1.5 cun below the umbilicus. The Qihai acupoint is known as the sea of primordial qi. It can benefit qi and assist Yang, regulate menstruation and consolidate essence. It is suitable for insomnia caused by qi deficiency or Yang deficiency. Stimulating this acupoint can improve symptoms such as fatigue and chills.

Guanyuan acupoint

It is located on the anterior midline, 3 cun below the umbilicus. Guanyuan acupoint is the gathering point of the small intestine. It can strengthen the foundation and nourish the lower part of the body, and is suitable for insomnia caused by insufficiency of kidney Yang. Massaging this acupoint can relieve symptoms such as cold pain in the waist and knees and frequent urination at night.

Fourth, acupoint stimulation methods

Pressing and kneading method: Use the pad of your thumb or middle finger to press the acupoints until you feel a slight soreness and distension in the local area. Press and knead each acupoint for 1-2 minutes, 1-2 times a day.

Moxibustion: Light the moxa stick and suspend it 2 to 3 centimeters above the acupoint until a warm sensation is felt. Moxibustion should last for 10 to 15 minutes at each acupoint, 2 to 3 times a week.

Cupping method: Apply an appropriate amount of lubricating oil to the acupoints, use a cupping or suction cup to adhere to the skin, and leave the cup on for 5 to 10 minutes. Do this 1 to 2 times a week.

Fifth, Precautions

When stimulating acupoints, it is important to apply moderate force to avoid excessive strain that may cause skin damage.

Pregnant women, those with broken skin or infected individuals are prohibited from using moxibustion and cupping.

If insomnia symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to rule out organic diseases.

By stimulating these acupoints on the trunk, the functions of the internal organs can be regulated, the Yin and Yang qi and blood can be balanced, and thus the symptoms of insomnia can be improved. However, it is necessary to combine the individual’s constitution and condition to select appropriate acupoints and stimulation methods.