Supreme Abyss
太渊 Tài Yuān · LU-9
About LU-9 Supreme Abyss
LU-9 Taiyuan holds a unique position in acupuncture theory as both the yuan-source point of the Lung meridian and the hui-meeting point of all the blood vessels in the body. This dual designation makes it the primary point for tonifying Lung qi and for treating conditions of the vascular system. In the pulse diagnosis tradition of Chinese medicine, it is precisely at Taiyuan that the practitioner places the fingers to read the cun (inch) position of the radial pulse.
As the yuan-source point, Taiyuan connects directly to the Lung's original qi and is the most effective point for strengthening a depleted Lung. Chronic cough, weak voice, shallow breathing, susceptibility to colds, and general fatigue all respond to gentle, persistent stimulation of this point. Unlike dispersing points that clear excess, Taiyuan works by building -- it is the point of choice when the Lung needs nourishment rather than drainage.
The name 'Supreme Abyss' suggests unfathomable depth, referencing the point's connection to the deepest reserves of Lung vitality. Its designation as the meeting point of the vessels reflects the TCM understanding that the Lung governs qi, and qi is what moves blood through the vessels. When Lung qi is strong, circulation is robust; when it weakens, the pulse becomes thin, irregular, or difficult to detect. Taiyuan is the clinical access point for this fundamental relationship.
How to Find This Point
Feel for the pulse at your wrist on the thumb side. The point is in the small depression just to the thumb side of where you feel the radial artery pulsing, right at the wrist crease line.
Technique
Use gentle to moderate pressure with the fingertip beside (not on) the radial artery. Small circular motions work well. Avoid compressing the artery itself.
Pressure & Duration
Light to moderate pressure for 1-2 minutes per side.
Benefits
Tonifies Lung qi and yin, promotes circulation, strengthens the pulse, resolves phlegm, benefits the blood vessels
Indications
Chronic cough, weak voice, shortness of breath on exertion, weak or absent pulse, blood vessel disorders, wrist pain, asthma from deficiency
TCM Actions
Tonifies Lung qi, nourishes Lung yin, resolves phlegm, promotes blood circulation, influences all the vessels (hui-meeting point of the vessels), shu-stream and yuan-source point of the Lung meridian
Self-Care Use
Use when feeling depleted, short of breath, or when your voice is weak after prolonged illness. This is a gentle tonification point -- press softly beside the pulse at your wrist for 1-2 minutes per side while breathing deeply. Good for recovery from respiratory illness.
Contraindications & Cautions
Avoid pressing directly on the radial artery. Use gentle pressure only -- this is a tonification point, not a dispersal point. Gentle stimulation is more appropriate than forceful pressure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the LU-9 Supreme Abyss acupressure point located?
LU-9 Supreme Abyss (Tài Yuān) is located at: At the transverse wrist crease, in the depression on the radial side of the radial artery, at the base of the thenar eminence. Feel for the pulse at your wrist on the thumb side. The point is in the small depression just to the thumb side of where you feel the radial artery pulsing, right at the wrist crease line.
How long should I press LU-9 Supreme Abyss?
Apply light to moderate pressure to LU-9 for 1-2 minutes per side. Use gentle to moderate pressure with the fingertip beside (not on) the radial artery. Small circular motions work well. Avoid compressing the artery itself.
What are the benefits of stimulating LU-9 Supreme Abyss?
Tonifies Lung qi and yin, promotes circulation, strengthens the pulse, resolves phlegm, benefits the blood vessels
Is it safe to do acupressure on LU-9 at home?
Use when feeling depleted, short of breath, or when your voice is weak after prolonged illness. This is a gentle tonification point -- press softly beside the pulse at your wrist for 1-2 minutes per s Cautions: Avoid pressing directly on the radial artery. Use gentle pressure only -- this is a tonification point, not a dispersal point. Gentle stimulation is m
Which meridian does LU-9 belong to?
LU-9 Supreme Abyss belongs to the Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian, which is associated with the Earth (shu-stream point of Metal meridian) element. Its TCM actions include: Tonifies Lung qi, nourishes Lung yin, resolves phlegm, promotes blood circulation, influences all the vessels (hui-meeting point of the vessels), shu-stream and yuan-source point of the Lung meridian