The Letting Go pressure point (Lu 1) is the Front-Mu point of the Lung meridian and is located on the upper chest. As a primary point for respiratory support and emotional regulation, it is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to promote lung function and ease emotional suppression.
It serves as a key interface for somatic and emotional well-being.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | Lu 1 – Letting Go |
| Body Area | Chest |
| Exact Location | Outer chest, 4 finger widths up from armpit crease |
| Common Uses | Relieves asthma, chest tension, emotional repression |
| Stimulation Technique | Press thumbs into horizontal chest muscles for 1 min |
| Contraindications | Avoid during acute respiratory distress or chest trauma |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Letting Go pressure point is applied in the treatment of:
- Asthma and shallow breathing caused by Lung Qi deficiency or stagnation
- Chest tightness, often linked to tension in the intercostal and pectoral muscles
- Suppressed emotions, particularly unresolved grief (associated with the Lung in TCM)
- Postural collapse or anxiety-related chest constriction
- Early-stage respiratory infection when combined with other points to release pathogens
Lu 1 is both diagnostic and therapeutic for assessing Lung function through palpation sensitivity and response.
Location
Lu 1 is found on the upper chest, approximately 4 finger-widths above the crease of the armpit and slightly lateral to the midline of the chest, over the pectoralis major muscle.
To locate:
- Place your hand flat on the chest with the little finger aligned to the axillary fold
- The point lies where the index finger rests—just under the clavicle but closer to the shoulder joint
- Often found in a subtle muscular dip between the clavicle and the first rib
This location is well documented in anatomical meridian diagrams and clinical respiratory maps.
How to Stimulate It
To activate the Letting Go pressure point:
- Technique: Use the thumbs or fingertips to apply firm but gentle pressure
- Direction: Press inward and slightly upward into the chest wall
- Duration: Hold for 1 minute, coordinating with slow, nasal breathing
- Frequency: Stimulate once or twice daily, especially during periods of stress or respiratory imbalance
- Posture: Perform while seated or lying flat, with shoulders relaxed and spine aligned
Stimulation may be enhanced with warm compresses or gentle tapping beforehand.
Benefits and Common Uses
Lu 1 is traditionally and clinically used to:
- Open the chest, promoting deep, unrestricted breathing
- Disperse Lung Qi stagnation, improving oxygenation and calm
- Alleviate asthma and chronic coughing
- Relieve tension in the upper pectoral and intercostal regions
- Process emotional stagnation, especially linked to suppressed grief or sadness
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lu 1 is the Front-Mu point of the Lung, and is essential for mobilizing Qi in the chest, releasing external wind, and transforming phlegm.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
Anatomically, Lu 1 overlays:
- The upper lobe of the lungs (internally)
- The pectoralis major and minor muscles
- The subclavian vessels and intercostal nerves
Stimulation may:
- Activate the parasympathetic nervous system, calming the breath
- Promote local circulation and reduce muscular restriction
- Support lymphatic drainage in the axillary and thoracic nodes
- Enhance the mechanics of inhalation by increasing chest expansion
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, this point is especially helpful during breath-restricted states or emotional heaviness. A brief press here often results in an immediate sensation of openness across the chest, both physically and emotionally.
Safety & Contraindications
Avoid use in these scenarios:
- Active chest infections, pneumonia, or bronchial distress
- Fractures or trauma to the clavicle or upper ribs
- Post-surgical healing near the thoracic cavity or lymphatic structures
- Individuals with pacemakers should use caution and consult a medical provider
Always apply moderate pressure and monitor for signs of discomfort. Consult our acupressure safety guide for detailed use instructions.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
Lu 1 is often combined with:
- CV 17 – Sea of Tranquility to open the chest and ease emotional constraint
- B 13 – Lung Associated Point to tonify Lung energy from the back
- LI 4 – Joining the Valley to clear heat and facilitate upper respiratory flow
Complementary techniques:
- Diaphragmatic breathing for expanding thoracic space
- Chest-opening yoga postures following stimulation
- Moxibustion for cold-phlegm conditions obstructing the Lung
Scientific Perspective
Research on acupoints near the chest, including Lu 1, shows potential to:
- Improve lung capacity in individuals with asthma or COPD
- Regulate autonomic nervous function, reducing heart and breath rate variability during stress
- Enhance intercostal mobility, aiding in respiratory efficiency
Studies have observed measurable decreases in chest wall rigidity and increased airflow post-acupressure at thoracic sites (PubMed).