Sea of Vitality Pressure Point: BL23 Location, Benefits & How to Use

This is one of those points I never overlook—especially when someone comes to me depleted, sore, or carrying the silent weight of fatigue in their bones.

BL23, known as the Sea of Vitality or Shenshu in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is much more than a back pain remedy. It’s a direct line into the body’s deepest reserves of energy—what the classics call Kidney Essence, or Jing.

Located in the lumbar region, BL23 has a quiet strength. I’ve seen it ease long-standing lower back pain, reinvigorate people who feel like their energy is leaking, and gently coax the body back into balance after illness or emotional exhaustion. Whether I’m using it in sessions, teaching self-care, or simply rubbing it myself on cold mornings, this point feels like home.

1. Basic Identification

• Point ID/Code: BL23 / B23
• Traditional Name(s): Shenshu (腎俞), “Kidney Shu”
• Meridian Association: Bladder Meridian (Foot Taiyang)
• Point Classification: Back-Shu Point of the Kidneys

2. Location Information

BL23 is found in the lower back, level with the second lumbar vertebra (L2), approximately 1.5 cun (or 2–4 finger widths) lateral to the spine. If you stand and place your hands on your hips, your thumbs will naturally land close to this area. These points sit in the soft tissue just outside the spine’s bony ridge, at about waist level—often where your “back dimples” lie. Anatomically, it lies within the erector spinae muscle group, and is innervated by the posterior rami of the L2 spinal nerve.

3. Therapeutic Functions

When people ask what BL23 is for, I tell them this: it’s for restoring what feels worn out. It nourishes the kidneys, strengthens the lumbar spine, regulates water metabolism, and restores depleted energy. It’s a cornerstone point for chronic fatigue, lower back weakness, and kidney-related disorders—from low libido to urinary issues.

Here’s a table summarizing its primary therapeutic qualities:

4. Historical Context and Traditional Significance

BL23, or Shenshu, has long been revered in Chinese medical texts. It’s part of a sacred group of Back-Shu points that reflect the energy of internal organs on the surface of the back. Among them, BL23 holds a particularly powerful role—it connects directly to the Kidneys, which in TCM are considered the root of life. They govern growth, reproduction, willpower, and even our ancestral energy. In other words, when the Kidneys are strong, we feel resilient; when they’re weak, we may feel fearful, tired, or old beyond our years.

For millennia, BL23 has been used to strengthen this deep core. Ancient physicians noted its ability to tonify Kidney Essence (Jing), warm Yang energy, and anchor the spirit when it felt scattered. It wasn’t just a treatment point—it was a place to rekindle vitality. The name “Shenshu” translates to “Kidney Shu,” with “Shu” meaning transport—emphasizing its function as a conduit between the Kidneys and the rest of the body.

5. Mechanisms and Modern Understanding

From a modern biomedical lens, stimulation of BL23 affects local muscle tone, blood flow, and neural signaling. Acupressure or acupuncture here activates sensory receptors in the fascia and muscles, which send signals to the brain via spinal pathways. Studies show that stimulation of BL23 can release neurochemicals like endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine—modulating pain and mood.

Research also links this point to autonomic regulation. It may help balance sympathetic nervous system activity, reduce inflammation, and even influence adrenal function. Anatomically, it lies close to nerves that serve both musculoskeletal and visceral structures, helping explain its dual effect on the back and the kidneys. Some studies show increased blood flow to the kidneys and improved urological outcomes when this point is used in acupuncture protocols.

6. Applications and Techniques

BL23 is versatile in treatment. In clinical acupuncture, I often needle this point for 20–30 minutes, sometimes using electroacupuncture for chronic back pain. In self-care or massage settings, acupressure is highly effective.

Use the thumbs or knuckles to press gently into the point. I guide clients to use firm, circular pressure—or simply rest their hands on the area with intention and breath. A favorite home remedy: briskly rub both BL23 and BL47 with the backs of your hands for one minute. As you breathe deeply, you’ll feel warmth rising through your back and body. This simple friction stimulates the Sea of Vitality—like lighting a small internal fire.

For deep fatigue, I’ll combine BL23 with CV6 (Qihai), KI3 (Taixi), and ST36 (Zusanli). For reproductive issues, I often pair it with CV4 and SP6. For lower back support, it’s beautiful alongside BL24 and BL25.

7. Safety and Contraindications

BL23 is generally safe when stimulated gently. But certain precautions are essential.

Never press on disintegrating discs or fractured or broken bones. If you have a weak back, simply resting your palms there or applying light touch can be healing. Strong pressure is not required to feel the benefits. Avoid if there’s inflammation, open wounds, or signs of infection. In pregnancy, avoid deep stimulation on the lower back unless guided by a professional.

If you’re unsure, always consult your doctor—especially if there’s a history of spinal injury, osteoporosis, or complex conditions. And remember: healing doesn’t always mean pushing. Sometimes, the lightest touch unlocks the deepest change.

8. Related Points and Energetic Combinations

BL23 sits in a constellation of powerful allies. Its energetic twin, BL47, lies slightly more lateral and is known for emotional grounding. GV4, found along the midline at the same level, is often used to boost Yang energy. When paired with KI3 (near the ankle), you create a front-to-back connection of Kidney Qi that’s deeply stabilizing.

In reflexology, this area corresponds to zones that support the adrenal glands and lower spine. It’s mirrored in auriculotherapy as well—through ear points that influence the kidneys and lumbar spine.

In Five Element theory, BL23 belongs to the Water element, which governs fear, stillness, and inner wisdom. It’s associated with winter—the time of rest and regeneration. No surprise, then, that this point is one of restoration.

9. Multimedia and Learning Aids

• Watch: BL23 Acupressure for Back Pain – YouTube
• See the Anatomy: BL23 Acupuncture Point – Physiopedia
• Try It in the App: BL23 is featured in “Vital Kidney Boost” on the AcupressureGuide iOS App

10. User Experience Features

• Search Tags: #BL23 #SeaOfVitality #KidneyQi #LowerBackPain #AdrenalSupport #EnergyHealing
• Difficulty Rating: Moderate (3/5) – Easier with a mirror, partner, or massage tool
• Practitioner Tip: Have the person lie prone with a soft bolster under their abdomen. This gently stretches the lumbar region and makes the point more accessible.
• Patient-Friendly Explanation: “This is the go-to spot when your back aches or your energy feels drained. It’s like placing a warm hand on the body’s battery pack.”
• Self-Care Reminder: A little warmth here goes a long way—don’t underestimate the power of gentle friction and mindful breath.

Summary Table

Whether you’re kneeling beside a massage table, guiding a loved one in self-care, or simply giving your own back a mindful rub—BL23 is a gift. It’s a place where strength is restored quietly. A soft ignition point for the power that lives within your core.

Use it gently. Use it often. Let your hands wake up what your body already knows: you are supported.