Governing Vessel (Du Mai)
The Governing Vessel (Du Mai, GV) belongs to the Fire element. It runs along the midline of the back, from the coccyx over the spine, neck and head to the upper lip. It governs Yang energy, strengthening the back, mind, and general stability.
Note: The points shown on the 3D model do not correspond to the exact anatomical location. They serve only as a guide to help you find the respective acupuncture points.
Governing Vessel 1 (GV1) – Changqiang, Long Strong Governing Vessel 2 (GV2) – Yaoshu, Lumbar Shu Governing Vessel 3 (GV3) – Yaoyangguan, Lumbar Yang Gate Governing Vessel 4 (GV4) – Mingmen, Gate of Life Governing Vessel 5 (GV5) – Between L1–L2 Governing Vessel 6 (GV6) – Between L2–L3 Governing Vessel 7 (GV7) – Between thoracolumbar junction Governing Vessel 8 (GV8) – Jinsuo, Sinew Contraction Governing Vessel 9 (GV9) – Zhiyang, Reaching Yang Governing Vessel 10 (GV10) – Between T6–T7 Governing Vessel 11 (GV11) – Between T5–T6 Governing Vessel 12 (GV12) – Between T3–T4 Governing Vessel 13 (GV13) – Between T1–T2 Governing Vessel 14 (GV14) – Dazhui, Great Vertebra Governing Vessel 15 (GV15) – Below occiput Governing Vessel 16 (GV16) – Below external occipital protuberance Governing Vessel 17 (GV17) – On head midline behind forehead Governing Vessel 18 (GV18) – On head midline Governing Vessel 19 (GV19) – On head before occiput Governing Vessel 20 (GV20) – Baihui, Hundred Meetings Governing Vessel 21 (GV21) – Crown midline Governing Vessel 22 (GV22) – Mid-forehead Governing Vessel 23 (GV23) – Shenting, Spirit Courtyard Governing Vessel 24 (GV24) – Above upper lip Governing Vessel 25 (GV25) – Below lower lip Governing Vessel 26 (GV26) – Renzhong, Man’s Center Governing Vessel 27 (GV27) – Inside upper lip Governing Vessel 28 (GV28) – Middle of palate
