Taiyang (Greater Yang), also known simply as “Taiyang,” is one of the most commonly used extra points in acupressure and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Located in the temple region, this point is recognized for its powerful ability to alleviate temporal headaches, migraines, and eye strain.
Taiyang is classified as an “extra point,” meaning it does not fall on the standard meridian pathways but remains highly significant for both energetic and clinical use. It’s especially valued for addressing imbalances in the Shaoyang channels (Gallbladder and Sanjiao), which often manifest as lateral head pain and visual disturbances.
Alternate Names: Ex-HN5, Extra Point Taiyang
Quick benefits at a glance:
- Soothes migraines and temporal headaches
- Eases facial tension and TMJ discomfort
- Relieves eye fatigue and visual stress
- Helps reduce stress-related head pressure
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | Taiyang – Greater Yang (Ex-HN5) |
| Body Area | Temple |
| Exact Location | One finger width behind the midpoint between the outer eyebrow and eye corner |
| Common Uses | Headaches, migraines, TMJ pain, eye strain, facial tightness |
| Stimulation Technique | Gentle circular pressure for 1–2 minutes on each side |
| Contraindications | Avoid strong pressure; caution if there’s swelling, trauma, or bruising |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
Taiyang is especially effective for addressing disorders associated with the lateral head and facial region. Its primary indications include:
- Neurological: Tension-type headaches, migraines, dizziness
- Ocular: Eye strain, blurry vision, photophobia
- Musculoskeletal: Facial pain, TMJ disorders, jaw clenching
- Energetic patterns: Liver Yang rising, Wind invasion (headache patterns)
In clinical contexts, Taiyang is often used in combination with points on the Gallbladder meridian to resolve Shaoyang disorders.
Location
Taiyang is located on each side of the head, in the slight depression one finger-width posterior to the midpoint between the lateral end of the eyebrow and the outer canthus (corner) of the eye. This area lies over the temporalis muscle and often feels slightly tender to the touch.
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 ease migraines, facial tension, or visual stress, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app
How to Stimulate It
- Tool: Use your index or middle fingers
- Pressure: Light to moderate, never forceful
- Method: Apply circular or static pressure for 1–2 minutes
- Frequency: 2–3 times daily or at the onset of symptoms
- Position: Seated or lying down for better access and relaxation
- Pairing: Often used with BL 2, GB 20, or LI 4 for synergistic relief
Benefits and Common Uses
Taiyang supports both symptomatic relief and deeper regulation of qi in the head. Key effects include:
- Alleviates acute and chronic tension headaches
- Calms overactive sensory processing in the eyes and temples
- Relaxes facial muscles, particularly around the jaw
- Reduces dizziness related to stress or qi disharmony
- Enhances focus and clarity in visually demanding tasks
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taiyang disperses Wind and clears Heat, which are common pathogenic factors in headache and eye disorders. From a physiological view, it overlays the superficial temporal artery and is situated near key branches of the trigeminal nerve. Stimulation may regulate local blood flow, muscle tone, and neural signaling.
Practitioner Insight
In my work, I regularly turn to Taiyang for patients who present with stress-fueled migraines and screen-induced fatigue. A simple 2-minute press on each side—paired with deep breathing—often brings noticeable relief. Thanks to its easy access and gentle potency, it’s also one of the first points I suggest for those new to acupressure.
Safety & Contraindications
- Avoid excessive pressure—this area is delicate and near the eye
- Do not stimulate if there’s recent trauma, bruising, or inflammation in the temple
- Caution for individuals with epilepsy or a history of head injury
- Avoid during high fever or severe dizziness
- Read our full acupressure safety guide
- Explore more on acupressure therapy
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
Complementary points that enhance Taiyang’s effects:
- LI 4 – Hegu: For general pain and tension
- GB 20 – Fengchi: For neck and head relief
- Yintang – Third Eye: To calm the mind and reduce stress
- Breathing techniques, gentle tapping, or using a cool jade roller can further boost the effects
More sessions with Taiyang (Greater Yang) in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
While Taiyang itself hasn’t been the focus of isolated clinical trials, adjacent regions and extra points in the craniofacial area have been studied for headache and eye fatigue relief. Research suggests that manual stimulation can decrease muscle activity in the temporalis and influence pain perception via the trigeminal nerve system. For example, acupuncture studies involving temporal points show efficacy for migraine relief via central nervous system modulation (PubMed study).