The Fire at the Gate of Life (and what to do with a hot water bottle)

There is a wonderful acupuncture point in the middle of your back level with your navel, called Du-4. It is the fourth acupuncture point on the Du channel, which was one of three channels that formed right at the moment when you changed from being a flat disc of cells to something embryo-shaped. Classical Chinese medical texts describe Du-4 as the location of a metaphorical flame that provides the warmth necessary for life. This flame is called Ming Men, "the Fire at the Gate of Life". Du-4 shares its name with Ming Men and is often referred to as the Gate of Life or the Gate of Vitality. Because of its proximity to Ming Men, Du-4 is associated with heat. If you pop an acupuncture needle into Du-4 and take it out straight away, it will warm you up - like quickly prodding a fire will get it going again. If you leave the needle in for 15 minutes or more, it will cool you down - like spreading out the coals in a fire can do. Du-4 is also associated with the beginning of life and can be used for both men and women who are having difficulty conceiving. After sparking new life, it promotes long life and vitality. It is particularly useful when treating fatigue, back pain in elderly people, and susceptibility to colds.

The best thing about Du-4 is that you can use it at home without any needles. Popping a hot water bottle over Du-4 will warm your whole body through, give your immune system a boost, and help with afternoon energy slumps.