In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the body's health is contingent on a balance between yin and yang. Cold, a yin force, is believed to disrupt this equilibrium, making individuals susceptible to illness. One of the vital points in the balance of these forces is Feng Chi, or GB20. Feng Chi is a point located at the base of the skull, in the hollow between the two large neck muscles, and just lateral to the tendons of the trapezius muscle. This point is also known as "Wind Palace".
An acupuncturist may stimulate Feng Chi to release tension and disperse wind in the shoulders and neck, which can promote relaxation and relieve symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and stiffness. It can also help with other issues related to the head and neck, such as migraines, neck pain, red and sore eyes, and nasal obstruction. It’s considered a particularly vulnerable area that requires additional protection during colder months from cold winds and drafts.
Wearing a scarf or hood when out in cold wind or in drafty areas acts as a barrier, preventing the intrusion of cold and dampness at the Feng Chi point. By maintaining warmth, the body is thought to conserve yang energy, essential for vitality and defense against pathogens, thus boosting the immune system.
Wearing a scarf and protecting the neck may aid in:
Protection against the Wind-Cold Pathogen: In TCM, illnesses often originate from external factors, such as "wind-cold". The neck is considered a vulnerable area, and a scarf acts as a barrier against this cold, damp intrusion.
Preservation of Yang Qi: Yang energy is associated with warmth and vitality. By keeping the neck warm, a scarf helps to conserve yang qi, preventing its depletion.
Strengthening the Defensive Qi: The neck is seen as a crucial area for the body's defensive qi, the energy responsible for warding off external pathogens. Protecting this area with a scarf helps to bolster the body's defenses.
If you’re interested in boosting your immune system, or if you have additional questions about how acupuncture could benefit you, please give us a call at 301.880.3232. It would be our pleasure to assist you in scheduling a consultation.
References:
Wen Y, Zhang C, Zhao XF, et al. Safety of different acupuncture manipulations for posterior circulation ischemia with vertigo. Neural Regen Res. 2016;11(8):1267-1273. doi:10.4103/1673-5374.189191
Yuan X, Hao X, Lai Z, Zhao H, Liu W. Effects of acupuncture at fengchi point (GB 20) on cerebral blood flow. J Tradit Chin Med. 1998;18(2):102-105.