GV 20, also known as Baihui or the Hundred Convergences, is a critical pressure point located at the crown of the head. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this point is revered for its influence on mental clarity and consciousness. It lies along the Governing Vessel (Du Mai) meridian and is where all Yang meridians are believed to intersect—hence the name “Hundred Convergences.”
Primary use:
- Enhances concentration and focus
- Relieves mental fatigue and overthinking
- Stabilizes rising yang and calms the spirit
Alternate names: Baihui (Chinese: 百会), DU 20.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | Hundred Convergences – GV 20 (Baihui, DU 20) |
| Body Area | Head |
| Exact Location | Top of the head, at the midpoint between ears |
| Common Uses | Mental clarity, fatigue relief, cognitive focus |
| Stimulation Technique | Finger pressure with gentle circular motion |
| Contraindications | Avoid strong stimulation with hypertension |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Hundred Convergences pressure point plays a central role in regulating neurological and energetic functions. Clinically, it is used to support individuals experiencing:
- Mental exhaustion or fog
- Poor memory and difficulty concentrating
- Vertigo and mild dizziness
- Emotional instability or anxiety
GV 20 is also used in cases of prolapse (rectal or uterine) due to its lifting nature within TCM theory. From a neuroanatomical perspective, its location corresponds roughly to the parietal region of the scalp, an area with rich innervation that may affect cortical activation during stimulation.
Location
GV 20 is located at the top of the head, precisely midway between the apexes of both ears. To find it:
- Place your fingers at the top edges of each ear.
- Trace upward until they meet at the center of the skull.
- The point lies in a slight depression on the crown.
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 improve focus, restore calm, or reduce cognitive overload, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app.
How to Stimulate It
- Method: Use the pads of your index or middle fingers.
- Technique: Apply gentle pressure in slow, circular motions.
- Duration: Hold or massage for 1–2 minutes.
- Frequency: Once to twice daily, or as part of a more extended session.
- Posture: Sit upright or lie flat; avoid slouching to allow optimal alignment.
- It can be paired with GV 24.5 (Third Eye), LI 4 (Joining the Valley), or Yintang for compounded effects.
Benefits and Common Uses
The Hundred Convergences pressure point is known for both physical and energetic benefits:
- Cognitive clarity: Enhances memory, focus, and learning retention
- Mental fatigue relief: Useful for overthinkers and those with brain fog
- Emotional support: Calms excess yang, stabilizes mood, and anchors qi
- Energetic balance: Elevates sunken qi and unifies yang meridians
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
GV 20 is positioned along the Governing Vessel meridian, which is linked to spinal and neurological regulation in TCM. Stimulation may affect:
- Cerebral blood flow
- Autonomic nervous system regulation
- Qi ascension and balance of excess yang energy
Neuroscientific perspectives suggest that pressure at this point may influence the prefrontal cortex and default mode network, which is associated with introspection, attention regulation, and stress modulation.
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, GV 20 works exceptionally well at the close of a session, especially when combined with deep diaphragmatic breathing. Clients often describe an immediate sense of lightness or spaciousness in the mind. I recommend using this point when feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, or unable to focus—it’s like pressing the body’s own “reset” button.
Safety & Contraindications
GV 20 is generally safe, but observe the following:
- Avoid strong or prolonged pressure in cases of uncontrolled hypertension
- Do not apply if the scalp is inflamed or has open wounds
- Use caution in elderly individuals with fragile cranial bones
- Pregnant individuals should consult a qualified practitioner before use
Explore our acupressure safety guide and general acupressure resource hub for more safety tips.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
Consider combining GV 20 with:
Adjunct techniques:
- Guided meditation
- Diaphragmatic breathing
- Gentle scalp tapping or moxibustion (with supervision)
More sessions with Hundred Convergences (GV 20) in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
Scientific studies suggest that stimulating GV 20 may modulate cognitive processing, improve sleep architecture, and influence parasympathetic nervous activity. Functional MRI data shows altered activity in frontal lobe regions during GV 20 acupressure, supporting its role in mood regulation and attention.