Symptom family: Breathing Patterns

What is Sighing?

Sighing is a deep and prolonged inhalation followed by a slower exhalation, often involuntary and sometimes accompanied by sound. It's a common physical response to stress, fatigue, or frustration, serving as a natural regulator of emotional and physiological states.

While occasional sighing is normal and can even be a healthy way to express emotions or reset breathing patterns, frequent or excessive sighing might indicate underlying health concerns, ranging from anxiety and stress to more complex respiratory conditions.

How does TCM view Sighing?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets sighing as an indication of Qi (vital energy) stagnation, particularly involving the Liver and Heart. TCM posits that emotional upheaval, stress, or internal disharmony can disrupt the smooth flow of Qi, leading to its stagnation and resulting in frequent sighing.

This perspective underscores the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and energetic health in TCM, highlighting the importance of identifying and addressing the root cause of Qi Stagnation to alleviate symptoms like sighing.

Root Causes of Sighing in TCM

TCM identifies Qi Stagnation as a primary cause of sighing, especially when linked to emotional stress or internal imbalance. Heart Qi Stagnation and Liver Qi Stagnation are two patterns commonly associated with this symptom. Heart Qi Stagnation can manifest as frequent sighing accompanied by palpitations and a feeling of oppression in the chest, reflecting emotional distress impacting the Heart's ability to circulate Qi effectively.

Liver Qi Stagnation, on the other hand, might present with hypochondriac distension and mood swings, indicating that constrained emotions are impeding the liver's role in ensuring the smooth flow of Qi and Blood. Addressing these patterns involves both alleviating the immediate symptom and restoring overall harmony to the body's Qi dynamics.

Explore below more details about what might cause Sighing according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Qi Rebellion
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Heat
  • Dampness
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Common Symptoms: Depression Lack Of Appetite Chest Distension Stifling Sensation In The Chest Throat Lumps Irritability Palpitations Shortness Of Breath

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart Qi Stagnation Frequent sighing, Palpitations, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Depression Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Liver Qi Stagnation Frequent sighing, Sighing, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Xiao Yao San | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Yi Guan Jian
Pericardium Qi Stagnation Frequent sighing, Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Irritability, Lack of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Qi Stagnation Frequent sighing, General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Sighing Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Xiao Yao San | Si Mo Tang | Qi Ge San
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Common Symptoms: Timidity Easily Startled Lack Of Bravery Indecision Dizziness Blurry Vision Eye Floaters Nervousness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Gallbladder Deficiency Frequent sighing, Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Early awakening, Vivid dreaming... see more Wen Dan Tang
Liver Qi Deficiency Frequent sighing, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Vivid dreaming, Depression, Irritability, Hypochondriac distention, Irregular periods, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Abdominal distention... see more Xiao Yao San | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Si Wu Tang
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency Frequent sighing, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Reluctance to speak, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue, Palpitations, Depression, Spontaneous sweat, Sighing... see more Si Jun Zi Tang | Bao Yuan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Rebellion

Rebellious Qi in TCM is a bit like having a rebel inside your body. Qi, which is the vital energy flowing through your body, is supposed to move in certain directions to keep everything in balance and working well. But with Rebellious Qi, this energy decides to go the opposite way. Think of it like a river flowing upstream instead of downstream. This can cause various issues like heartburn, coughing, or even headaches. It's as if the body's natural flow is disrupted, creating a kind of internal chaos. TCM focuses on correcting this flow, restoring order and balance.... see more

Qi Rebellion Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Common Symptoms: Hypochondriac Distention Upper Abdominal Distension Hiccups Nausea Or Vomiting Belching Irritability Stomach Churning Breast Engorgement

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Rebellious Liver Qi Frequent sighing, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Belching, Stomach churning, Irritability, Breast engorgement, Headaches, Dizziness... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Frequent sighing, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Si Mo Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Yin Deficiency Frequent sighing, Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Reluctance to speak, Thin chest Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart Vessel obstructed Frequent sighing, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Depression, Restlessness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Heart pain, Chest pain, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Reluctance to speak, Cold extremities, Sighing, Purple lips, Purple nails, Purple face... see more Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Di Tan Tang | Dang Gui Si Ni Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat Frequent sighing, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Yi Huang Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat Frequent sighing, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Yi Huang Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Common Symptoms: Hypochondriac Distention Irritability Upper Abdominal Distension Hiccups Belching Abdominal Distention Depression Irregular Periods

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Frequent sighing, Sighing, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Xiao Yao San | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Yi Guan Jian
Liver Qi Deficiency Frequent sighing, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Vivid dreaming, Depression, Irritability, Hypochondriac distention, Irregular periods, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Abdominal distention... see more Xiao Yao San | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Si Wu Tang
Rebellious Liver Qi Frequent sighing, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Belching, Stomach churning, Irritability, Breast engorgement, Headaches, Dizziness... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Frequent sighing, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Si Mo Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Heart

In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more

Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Common Symptoms: Palpitations Depression Shortness Of Breath Stifling Sensation In The Chest Cold Extremities Purple Lips Pale Face Reluctance To Speak

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart Qi Stagnation Frequent sighing, Palpitations, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Depression Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Heart Vessel obstructed Frequent sighing, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Depression, Restlessness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Heart pain, Chest pain, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Reluctance to speak, Cold extremities, Sighing, Purple lips, Purple nails, Purple face... see more Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Di Tan Tang | Dang Gui Si Ni Tang
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency Frequent sighing, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Reluctance to speak, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue, Palpitations, Depression, Spontaneous sweat, Sighing... see more Si Jun Zi Tang | Bao Yuan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Common Symptoms: Reluctance To Speak Weak Voice Generalized Fatigue Shortness Of Breath Depression Hoarse Voice Itchy Throat Thin Chest

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Yin Deficiency Frequent sighing, Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Reluctance to speak, Thin chest Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency Frequent sighing, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Reluctance to speak, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue, Palpitations, Depression, Spontaneous sweat, Sighing... see more Si Jun Zi Tang | Bao Yuan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Gallbladder

In TCM the Gallbladder has a unique role in storing and excreting bile, but more importantly, it's seen as crucial for decision-making and courage. It's closely connected to the Liver, assisting in the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and supporting the Liver's role in maintaining emotional balance. When the Gallbladder malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to physical symptoms like gallstones, jaundice, or a bitter taste in the mouth. There might also be digestive disturbances, particularly related to fat metabolism. On an emotional level, a Gallbladder disorder can manifest as indecisiveness, timidity, or a tendency to easily succumb to stress. These symptoms highlight the TCM view of the Gallbladder as integral to both physical processes and emotional resilience.... see more

Gallbladder Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Gallbladder Deficiency Frequent sighing, Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Early awakening, Vivid dreaming... see more Wen Dan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Pericardium

In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more

Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Qi Stagnation Frequent sighing, Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Irritability, Lack of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Sighing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Frequent sighing, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Si Mo Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Sighing

To counteract sighing resulting from Qi stagnation, TCM utilizes specific formulas that promote Qi movement and alleviate emotional distress. Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang and Chai Hu Shu Gan San are two formulas particularly suited to this purpose. Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang is recommended for Heart Qi Stagnation, employing ingredients like Crow-Dipper Rhizomes to facilitate the movement of Qi and relieve chest oppression.

Chai Hu Shu Gan San is preferred for Liver Qi Stagnation, utilizing Bupleurum Roots to soothe the Liver and disperse stagnant Qi, addressing the root of emotional and physical tension. These formulas exemplify TCM's approach of using nuanced herbal blends to restore balance and health.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address sighing, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Qi Rebellion
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Heat
  • Dampness
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas for a rebellious qi
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that dispel phlegm
  • Formulas that warm interior cold
  • Formulas that tonify blood

All Formulas Recommended for Sighing Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi Stagnation
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Heart Qi Stagnation, Pericardium Qi Stagnation
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi Stagnation
Si Mo Tang Qi Stagnation
Wu Yao Tang Liver Qi Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation
Yi Guan Jian Liver Qi Stagnation
Qi Ge San Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Sighing Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Deficiency
Wen Dan Tang Gallbladder Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Liver Qi Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Liver Qi Deficiency
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
Bao Yuan Tang Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Sighing Caused by Qi Rebellion

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Rebellious Liver Qi
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Si Mo Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Si Ni San Rebellious Liver Qi
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach

All Formulas Recommended for Sighing Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Heart Vessel obstructed
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang Heart Vessel obstructed
Di Tan Tang Heart Vessel obstructed
Dang Gui Si Ni Tang Heart Vessel obstructed

All Formulas Recommended for Sighing Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Damp-Heat
Yi Huang Tang Damp-Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Sighing Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Damp-Heat
Yi Huang Tang Damp-Heat

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for sighing

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Heart Vessel obstructed, Qi Stagnation, Rebellious Liver Qi, Liver Qi Stagnation
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Heart Qi Stagnation, Pericardium Qi Stagnation, Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach... see more
Si Mo Tang Qi Stagnation, Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Wu Yao Tang Liver Qi Stagnation
Qi Ge San Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen" recommended for sighing

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation, Liver Qi Deficiency, Qi Stagnation
Si Ni San Rebellious Liver Qi
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for sighing

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Liver Qi Deficiency
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
Bao Yuan Tang Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for sighing

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bai He Gu Jin Tang Lung Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas for a rebellious qi" recommended for sighing

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach

Acupoints for Sighing

In addition to herbal medicine, TCM emphasizes acupuncture as a means to alleviate sighing by directly influencing Qi flow. Points like Qiuxu GB-40 and Taichong LIV-3 on the Gall Bladder and Liver Channels, respectively, are pivotal in resolving Liver Qi Stagnation by clearing Heat and invigorating Qi.

Similarly, Jiuwei REN-15 on the Directing Vessel calms the mind and regulates Heart Qi, addressing emotional disturbances that contribute to sighing. By targeting these acupoints, TCM practitioners aim to restore the harmonious flow of Qi, reduce emotional stress, and consequently diminish the frequency of sighing.

Explore below some acupoints used to address sighing, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Spleen Channel
  • Liver Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Directing Vessel
  • Governing Vessel
Zhejin GB-23

Zhejin GB-23

1 cun anterior to Yuanye GB-22, approximately level with the nipple.

Yanglingquan GB-34

Yanglingquan GB-34

In the depression anterior and inferior to the head of the fibula.

Yangfu GB-38

Yangfu GB-38

4 cun above and slightly anterior to the tip of the external malleolus, on the anterior border of the fibula.

Qiuxu GB-40

Qiuxu GB-40

Anterior and inferior to the external malleolus, in the depression on the lateral side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle that goes to the little toe.

Yinbai SP-1

Yinbai SP-1

On the medial side of the big toe, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.

Daheng SP-15

Daheng SP-15

On the mammillary line 4 cun lateral to the umbilicus center.

Taichong LIV-3

Taichong LIV-3

On the dorsum of the foot, between the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones, in the depression proximal to the metatarsophalangeal joints and the proximal angle between the two bones.

Qimen LIV-14

Qimen LIV-14

On the mammillary line, two ribs below the nipple, in the 6th intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the midline. Please note that there is an alternative location for LIV-14 at the lower edge of the ribcage in line with the nipple or, in women, 4 cun from the midline. In fact, one could look upon these as two separate points. The one in the intercostal space is used more for Channel problems. While the one at the lower edge of the ribcage is used more for Organ problems.

Geguan BL-46

Geguan BL-46

3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra (T7).

Jiuwei REN-15

Jiuwei REN-15

On the midline of the abdomen, 7 cun above the umbilicus and 1 cun below the sternocostal angle. This point is located at the tip of the xiphoid process, which is commonly known as ‘dove-tail’ in China, hence the name of the point.

Zhiyang DU-9

Zhiyang DU-9

On the back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra (T7).