Tongli (HE-5), also known as “Connecting Li,” is a traditional acupressure point located on the Heart meridian. This point is primarily used to regulate heart rhythm, calm the spirit, and support mental clarity. It lies on the inner forearm, approximately one thumb width above the wrist crease on the side aligned with the little finger, just next to the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Tongli is associated with the Heart channel, which governs not only the circulatory system but also the mind and emotions. Stimulation of HE-5 is often included in therapeutic protocols for palpitations, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and speech difficulties.
It is also known as HE-5, Heart 5, Connecting Interior, or Inner Communication Point (depending on translation systems in classical texts).
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | HE-5 – Tongli (Connecting Li) |
| Body Area | Forearm |
| Exact Location | One thumb width above the wrist crease, palm side, aligned with pinky |
| Common Uses | Anxiety, insomnia, palpitations, chest pain, speech difficulty |
| Stimulation Technique | Moderate pressure with thumb or finger, 1–2 minutes, palm up |
| Contraindications | Avoid during pregnancy without supervision; caution with cardiac conditions |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
Tongli (HE-5) is clinically significant in addressing both cardiovascular and psycho-emotional disturbances. According to TCM, it clears Heat from the Heart channel and opens the Mind’s orifices. This makes it particularly useful for:
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Insomnia and restlessness
- Panic attacks and anxiety
- Aphasia or sudden loss of speech (often post-stroke)
- Pain or pressure in the chest
It’s also linked to speech and expressive function, making it valuable in recovery routines for neurological or emotional imbalances affecting communication.
Location
Tongli is located on the anterior forearm, one thumb-width (approximately 2 cm) above the wrist crease, in line with the little finger. It lies just lateral (toward the thumb side) to the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon, which becomes more visible when the hand is flexed.
To find it:
- Turn your palm up.
- Locate HE-7 (at the wrist crease, in line with the pinky).
- Move your thumb-width upward along the same line.
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 calm your nervous system, balance your heart energy, or support emotional regulation, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app
How to Stimulate It
To stimulate Tongli (HE-5):
- Use your thumb or index finger
- Apply moderate, steady pressure for 1 to 2 minutes
- Keep your palm relaxed and facing upward
- Breathe slowly and rhythmically during the session
- Best done while seated or lying down
Frequency: It can be used daily or as needed to calm the heart or relieve tension. It is often paired with other Heart meridian points for a holistic effect.
Benefits and Common Uses
Tongli (HE-5) supports both physical and emotional health:
- Calms palpitations and irregular heartbeat
- Soothes anxiety, fear, and inner agitation
- Improves mental clarity and emotional expression
- Addresses speech disorders, including loss of voice or stuttering
- Relieves chest tension and pressure
It is often included in treatment protocols for PTSD, emotional trauma, and cardiac arrhythmias within holistic systems.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
In TCM, Tongli unblocks the Heart Luo-Connecting channel, facilitating circulation of Qi and Blood, and resolving stagnation in the chest and mind. It is known to:
- Harmonize the Heart and Small Intestine meridians
- Open the orifices of the mind (Shen disturbances)
- Support neurovascular balance via vagal pathways (in modern interpretations)
While Western studies on HE-5 specifically are limited, its parent meridian—the Heart channel—has been implicated in autonomic nervous system regulation and cardiovascular homeostasis in integrative medicine frameworks.
Practitioner Insight
I’ve used Tongli many times in protocols for clients who felt “unsettled” in the chest, like a flutter in the heart they couldn’t quite name. It’s especially powerful when paired with calming breathwork. There’s something deeply grounding about this point. I often combine it with PC 6 (Inner Gate) for those navigating high emotional stress or panic sensations.
Safety & Contraindications
- Avoid strong pressure in those with known heart disease unless under professional supervision
- Use caution in pregnant individuals unless guided by a trained practitioner
- Always assess for local tenderness or skin conditions before use
For more guidance on safe practice, see our:
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
- HT 7 (Spirit Gate) – for calming the spirit and insomnia
- PC 6 (Inner Gate) – helps with anxiety and nausea
- CV 17 (Sea of Tranquility) – relieves chest tightness
Adjunct methods:
- Breathwork and slow abdominal breathing
- Gentle forearm tapping or stroking
- Moxibustion or warming therapies on cold/stagnant presentations
More sessions with Tongli (Connecting Li) (HE-5) in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
While direct studies on HE-5 are limited, broader research supports Heart meridian stimulation’s role in:
- Modulating vagal tone and parasympathetic activity
- Reducing anxiety and insomnia symptoms
- Enhancing cardiac coherence and emotional regulation
Research on acupuncture points within the Heart meridian, including HE-7 and PC-6, supports their efficacy in mental health, arrhythmia, and neurocardiac synchronization (see studies indexed on PubMed).