GV 13 — Táo Dào (陶道) — Way of Happiness
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1. Overview
GV 13 — Táo Dào (陶道) — is an acupuncture point on the Governing Vessel (Du Mai). Its English name, Way of Happiness, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is used in acupuncture practice as part of channel-balancing prescriptions for a range of conditions.
I am Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto, a member of the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience. I use GV 13 as part of individually tailored acupuncture prescriptions at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
Note: this point is located one intervertebral space below C-7.
3. Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Regulates the Shao Yang
- Tonifies Wei Qi
- Disperses Lung Qi
- Calms the Shen
- Clears Heat and Fire
- Treats malaria
4. Indications
- Neck problems
- Neck spasms
- Neck rigidity
- Neck, shoulder, upper back and spine stiffness, pain and cramps
- Mania
- Muscular tetany
- Asthma
- Tidal fever
- Fever and chills
5. Needling
Straight insertion, pointed slightly upward, 1 to 1.5 cun. Sensation: Local distention and soreness extending downward to both shoulders.
Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. Never attempt self-needling. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of immediately after treatment in a clinical sharps container.
6. Clinical notes
GV 13 Táo Dào (Way of Happiness) is classified as: Intersecting point with the Urinary Bladder channel. These classifications inform how the point is used in clinical practice. The point is typically combined with other channel points to form a balanced prescription based on the patient’s individual TCM diagnosis.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use GV 13 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Asthma, Headache, Insomnia, Cough. Each treatment is individually designed following a full TCM assessment.
I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Visit the prices page for consultation fees. Return to the acupuncture points directory or the acupuncture main page.
