Blog: Can't Sleep? Try Mr. Spock's Vulcan Neck-Pinch

Remember how Mr. Spock of Star Trek fame would put people to sleep with a well-placed neck-pinch, known as the Vulcan neck-pinch? Well, its not just movie magic limited to the Vulcan Science Academy.

Traditional Acupuncture describes an acupressure point located at the nape of the neck, just behind the ear, that has been classically used to aid in insomnia. When I needle this point in my clinic, patients describe the sensation of "eyes getting heavy" and about wanting "to just drift away." The point is very effective for relaxing patients and assisting them in falling asleep.

You, too, can perform the Vulcan neck pinch—on yourself or your loved ones (or, indeed, on villains, as Mr. Spock often did). The accompanying picture shows where the acupuncture point is located. Press the point with your thumb for a few minutes and watch yourself—or others—ease into deep slumber.