GV-3 Yaoyangguan (腰陽關) — Lumbar Yang Gate

In the lumbar region, on the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4). At the same level as the iliac crests.

In prone or lateral decubitus, on the posterior midline, locate the point in the depression below the spinous process of the fourth lumbar vertebra, at the level of the iliac crest.

Supraspinous and interspinous ligaments. Innervated by the dorsal branches of the lumbar nerves.

Perpendicular or slightly oblique insertion directed superiorly, 0.5–1.0 cun.

Guan means important, strategic. It is the strategic point of the lumbar Yang. The point is located at the level of the waist and connects internally with the Dan Tian (field of the quintessence), where primordial Yin and Yang converge. It belongs to the Du Mai, "Sea of the Yang Meridians," which sends Yang Qi throughout the body, hence its name Yao Yang Guan.