The Elegant Mansion pressure point (K 27) is the terminal point of the Kidney meridian in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Located in the upper chest just beneath the clavicle, it is traditionally used to relieve respiratory congestion, support lung function, and facilitate energy flow between the chest and the rest of the body. The point is frequently applied in acupressure routines that target coughing, shallow breathing, and energetic stagnation in the upper torso.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | K 27 – Elegant Mansion |
| Body Area | Chest |
| Exact Location | Hollows below collarbone next to breastbone |
| Common Uses | Relieves chest congestion, asthma, coughing |
| Stimulation Technique | Press firmly with fingertips for 1 min |
| Contraindications | Avoid with acute trauma to the chest, open wounds, or during pregnancy |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Elegant Mansion pressure point is clinically associated with:
- Chest tightness or shortness of breath
- Coughing, especially from chronic bronchitis or asthma
- Upper respiratory infections
- Anxious breathing or shallow respiratory patterns
- Energetic blockages in the chest and throat region
K 27 is traditionally used to open the chest, relieve phlegm, and harmonize Kidney and Lung energy, making it an important point in cases involving impaired breathing, stress-induced chest tension, and weak immune defense.
Location
K 27 is located on each side of the chest, in the depression just below the clavicle, approximately one finger-width from the midline of the breastbone.
To locate:
- Place your fingertips just beneath the clavicle
- Move outward from the center (sternum) until you feel a small, tender hollow near the junction of the clavicle and first rib
This point is easily accessible and often highlighted in upper body acupressure charts and diagrams.
How to Stimulate It
To activate the Elegant Mansion pressure point:
- Technique: Use the pads of your index or middle fingers
- Direction: Apply firm, downward pressure into the hollow
- Intensity: Strong but comfortable pressure is ideal
- Duration: Maintain pressure for 1 minute, optionally while breathing slowly
- Frequency: Use once or twice daily, particularly during episodes of chest congestion or breathing discomfort
- Position: Can be done seated or lying down for relaxation
K 27 may be stimulated bilaterally and is often used alongside other points to support respiratory and immune health.
Benefits and Common Uses
K 27 is widely used for its ability to:
- Ease upper chest congestion and shallow breathing
- Calm persistent or irritated coughing
- Reduce symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, or seasonal allergies
- Enhance energy levels and breathing coordination
- Ground scattered energy or fatigue stemming from adrenal imbalance
In TCM, this point is known to stimulate the flow of Qi in the upper body, benefit the throat, and descend rebellious Lung Qi, aligning with its therapeutic effects on breath and voice.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
Anatomically, K 27 lies above the upper intercostal muscles and over parts of the thoracic lymphatic network, with proximity to:
- The subclavian artery and vein
- The supraclavicular nerves
- The apex of the lung and upper bronchial tree
Pressure here may:
- Activate parasympathetic nervous system functions via vagus nerve influence
- Reduce chest wall tension and improve pulmonary expansion
- Facilitate lymphatic drainage from the upper respiratory tract
From a physiological and energetic perspective, it harmonizes the Kidney-Lung axis, known to affect breath, vitality, and fluid metabolism.
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, this point has consistently helped with lingering chest tightness after illness. It’s particularly useful when combined with deep diaphragmatic breathing—helping reset the rhythm of breath and open up the chest space.
Safety & Contraindications
Avoid stimulation of K 27 in the following scenarios:
- During pregnancy, unless under professional supervision
- In the presence of chest trauma, surgical wounds, or swelling
- For individuals with severe osteoporosis or cardiovascular instability
Always use caution when pressing near bony or sensitive areas. For more safety information, consult the acupressure safety guide.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
This point is often paired with:
- LU 1 – Central Treasury to deepen lung expansion
- CV 17 – Chest Center to regulate emotional breath tension
- LI 4 – Joining the Valley to assist in releasing surface-level congestion
Complementary techniques:
- Tapping or rhythmic percussion on the chest to loosen phlegm
- Steam inhalation before stimulation
- Breath training practices such as pursed-lip or box breathing
Scientific Perspective
Although direct studies on K 27 are limited, adjacent points along the chest wall have been investigated for their impact on respiration, anxiety, and immune signaling. Clinical studies suggest that acupressure applied to the chest region may reduce cortisol levels, modulate heart rate variability, and improve respiratory depth. These mechanisms align with K 27’s traditional role in promoting clear, calm breathing. NIH study