Shen Men Piercing
What is the Shen Men Piercing?
Shen Men translates to "Gate of Heaven" and refers to one of the most important acupuncture points on the ear. This point is located in the upper area of the ear, in the triangular depression (fossa triangularis) between the upper and lower crus of the antihelix. In traditional Chinese medicine, this point has been considered a central regulator of the nervous system for thousands of years.
The Shen Men piercing permanently stimulates this acupuncture point and can thus have a calming, balancing effect on body and mind. It is particularly often recommended for conditions such as chronic stress, anxiety, sleep problems and inner restlessness.
Therapeutic Effect
The Shen Men point is one of the most frequently used points in auriculotherapy (ear acupuncture). The following effects are attributed to it:
- • Stress reduction: The point has a regulating effect on the autonomic nervous system and can help lower cortisol levels. Many clients report a feeling of inner calm after getting the piercing.
- • Anxiety relief: Through stimulation of the vagus nerve system, the Shen Men piercing can help reduce anxiety and panic attacks.
- • Better sleep: The calming effect on the nervous system can lead to improved sleep patterns. Clients frequently report falling asleep faster and more restful sleep.
- • Pain relief: As a higher-level regulator, Shen Men can also provide support for various pain syndromes.
Precise Placement at XS Piercing
As with our Daith migraine piercing, we also use a special resistance measuring device for the Shen Men piercing to locate the exact acupuncture point. The anatomical position of the point varies slightly from person to person, which is why a purely visual determination is often inaccurate. With our measurement technique, we ensure that the piercing sits exactly where the therapeutic effect is greatest.
The procedure is similar to the Daith piercing: After a thorough consultation, we locate the point, explain the exact placement to you and, on request, administer local anaesthesia. The actual piercing is then quick and completely painless with anaesthesia.
Healing & Aftercare
The Shen Men piercing typically heals within 6 to 8 weeks. Since it passes through cartilage tissue, careful aftercare is particularly important.
- • Clean daily: Gently dab the area twice a day with sterile saline solution (NaCl 0.9%). Do not use aggressive disinfectants.
- • Do not rotate the jewellery: Leave the initial jewellery alone and do not turn it. Movement can irritate the fresh wound and delay healing.
- • Watch your hair: Make sure no hair gets caught in the piercing. Tie longer hair up when sleeping.
- • Be patient: Even if the piercing looks healed on the outside, the cartilage inside takes longer. Maintain the aftercare routine for at least 8 weeks.
Jewellery Options
As initial jewellery, we use a curved barbell or straight stud made of titanium (ASTM F136). After healing is complete, various jewellery options are available to you: decorative studs with gemstones, small rings or special tops that make the piercing a real eye-catcher. We are happy to advise you on jewellery choices for your healed piercing.
Medical Disclaimer
The Shen Men piercing is not a substitute for professional medical or psychotherapeutic treatment. For serious conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression or chronic sleep problems, please consult a doctor or therapist. The piercing can be a complementary measure but does not replace professional medical care.
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More Therapeutic Piercings
Are you also interested in the Daith piercing for migraine relief? At XS Piercing Basel, we offer both therapeutic ear piercings with precise acupuncture point localisation.
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