The Jingming (Bright Eyes) pressure point, designated BL-1, is a central point in both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and modern acupressure systems. Situated at the inner corner of the eye, it serves as a vital portal for eye-related therapeutic interventions.
Top Benefits Before Scroll:
- Relieves eye strain and blurry vision
- Eases dry eyes and inflammation
- Supports sinus and headache relief
In clinical practice, BL-1 is used to address disorders of the eyes and surrounding facial structures. In TCM, it is the gateway where the Bladder meridian begins, facilitating qi circulation to the eyes and frontal region. The term “Jingming” translates to “Bright Eyes,” reflecting its deep connection with ocular clarity and energetic nourishment. Occasionally, it’s also referred to as “Mingmu” in classical texts.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | BL-1 – Jingming (Bright Eyes) |
| Body Area | Face/Eyes |
| Exact Location | In the small depression above the inner canthus of the eye |
| Common Uses | Eye fatigue, blurry vision, dry eyes, headaches, sinus congestion |
| Stimulation Technique | Light finger pressure for 1–2 minutes with eyes closed |
| Contraindications | Avoid if infected, inflamed, or post-surgical in the eye region |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
Jingming (BL-1) is frequently utilized to alleviate:
- Ocular fatigue due to screen overuse
- Myopia, night blindness, and color vision irregularities
- Conjunctivitis and mild ocular inflammation
- Headaches originating around the eyes
- Nasal congestion due to sinus infections
This point intersects the Bladder and Stomach meridians, and also links to the Yin Qiao and Yang Qiao vessels, which affect eyelid motion and muscle tone. From a neurological standpoint, stimulating this area may also modulate branches of the trigeminal nerve (specifically the infratrochlear nerve), aiding in pain modulation and circulation.
Location
To locate BL-1, close your eyes and gently feel for a slight indentation just above the inner corner of the eye, near where the upper eyelid meets the side of the nose. The point sits in a sensitive depression between the infraorbital ridge and nasal bone.
Looking for an easier way to use this point in your wellness routine? This pressure point is simple to locate and even easier to apply when guided step-by-step. It’s featured in over 70 evidence-based pressure point protocols inside our Pressure Points Guide app. Whether you’re looking to relieve eye strain, ease sinus congestion, or support better visual function, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app
How to Stimulate It
- Tool: Use your index finger or thumb
- Pressure: Very light—this is a sensitive area
- Duration: Hold for 1–2 minutes
- Posture: Sit or lie with eyes closed and face relaxed
- Frequency: 1–2 times daily for general relief; more frequent use in symptom-specific routines
- Pair With: BL-2 (Zanzhu) and LI 4 (Hegu) for comprehensive eye and sinus therapy
Benefits and Common Uses
- Visual relief: Improves clarity, reduces dryness, and combats visual fatigue
- Pain alleviation: Assists in managing frontal headaches and orbital pain
- Respiratory link: Alleviates sinus congestion related to rhinitis or allergies
- TCM View: Regulates qi flow through the eyes and balances Yin/Yang Qiao vessels
- Emotional balance: Calms the spirit when eye tension contributes to mental agitation
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
Energetically, Jingming helps open the orifices and clears visual obstructions. It also nourishes the eye tissues via enhanced qi and blood flow through the associated meridians. On a physiological level, this point may promote tear secretion, improve microcirculation to the retina, and relieve stagnation around the orbital muscles.
Practitioner Insight
In clinical sessions, I often include BL-1 for clients working long hours on screens. It’s one of the most rewarding points to teach, as even gentle application yields noticeable relief. For those new to facial points, I recommend pairing it with slow exhalations to release tension in the brow and eyes more deeply.
Safety & Contraindications
- Avoid applying pressure if you have active eye infections, recent ocular surgery, or hypersensitive skin
- Do not stimulate with sharp tools or strong force
- Use gentle hygiene—clean hands before touching this area
Refer to our Acupressure Safety Guide for full details, and explore more insights in our acupressure category.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
- BL-2 (Zanzhu) – above the eyebrow, complements BL-1 for vision clarity
- LI 4 (Hegu) – boosts circulation and sinus drainage
- GV 24.5 (Third Eye) – for calming tension behind the eyes
You can also enhance stimulation with gentle facial tapping, breathing exercises, or moxibustion, though moxibustion should be avoided near the eye.
More sessions with Jingming (Bright Eyes) (BL-1) are featured in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
While direct scientific studies on BL-1 are limited, research suggests that acupressure near the orbit can modulate ocular blood flow and reduce symptoms of dry eye syndrome and myopia progression (NIH source). Evidence also supports the use of acupressure in managing tension headaches and sinus pain via trigeminal nerve interaction.