The 11 p.m. mind that will not stop, and the 3 a.m. version of the same, are what these points are for. They are not sedatives. They are a way to give a busy nervous system something steady to focus on, which is often enough to let sleep in.

Press each for about a minute, both sides where there are two, with slow breathing. Longer exhale than inhale.

Spirit Gate (HT7, Shenmen)

On the inside of the wrist, at the crease, on the little-finger side. Feel for the small hollow just inside the tendon. This is the point we use most for a restless, anxious mind. Gentle pressure with the thumb, small circles, one minute each wrist.

Inner Gate (PC6, Neiguan)

Three finger-widths up from the inner wrist crease, between the two central tendons. Better known as the nausea point, but it is also calming for the chest-tight, heart-racing kind of wakefulness. Press firmly.

The ear: Shen Men

The upper part of the ear has a triangular hollow (the triangular fossa). Shen Men sits toward the upper, outer corner of it. Squeeze gently between thumb and index finger. This is the point most often used for ear seeds, so that you can press it in the dark without finding it fresh each time.

Between the eyebrows (Yintang)

The spot right between the brows, at the top of the nose. A single fingertip, very light pressure, small circles, for a minute or two. This is the point people instinctively rub when tired, and there is a reason for that. It pairs well with an eye pillow, which does the same job passively.

Putting it together

Lights out. Yintang first, for a minute, with slow exhales. Then Spirit Gate on each wrist. Then the ear. If the mind is still loud, Inner Gate. Then stop, and let the breath continue on its own. The point is not to do it perfectly. The point is to give your attention a small, repetitive job that is not thinking.

If you want a more complete evening routine, the sleep wind-down kit covers the tools and the timing.

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Content on this site is educational and is not a substitute for individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with your own healthcare provider before starting any new therapy, especially if you are pregnant, have a medical condition or take medication.