The points are believed to be arranged along channels, called meridians. Stimulating these areas is believed to release tension and increase blood flow. Try searching online for charts that show all of the meridian pathways in the body. [3] X Expert Source Peter D’Aquino, L. Ac, MS, NCCAOMLicensed Acupuncturist Expert Interview. 14 April 2020. Some people believe that acupressure and other Asian body therapies correct imbalances and blockages of the flow of vital energies through our bodies. [4] X Research source
Many doctors, practitioners, and advocates of holistic health believe that acupressure has positive and healing effects on the body. UCLA has a Center for East-West Medicine that studies the scientific basis of acupressure. They try to provide explanations and practical applications of the techniques. [6] X Research source Remember, acupressure points are not always located in the same area as the symptoms you experience. For instance, an acupressure point for a headache might be located in your hand. [7] X Expert Source Peter D’Aquino, L. Ac, MS, NCCAOMLicensed Acupuncturist Expert Interview. 14 April 2020. To become a licensed acupressurist, one must go through a rigorous program at special acupressure and acupuncture schools. They can also go through massage therapy programs. These programs include study of anatomy and physiology, acupressure points and meridians, technique and protocol, and Chinese medicine theory, . These programs require up to 500 hours of schooling. [8] X Research source
Some people may see results immediately, some may need several treatments. Although immediate pain relief may occur, the pain can return. This is considered normal. Acupressure is not an immediate fix. It is technique you can use to help ease pain by decreasing blockages and restoring your body to a balanced condition. [9] X Research source You can apply acupressure as frequently as you want. Multiple times a day or even multiple times an hour. As you continually manipulate a point, you may feel a lack of pain as it begins to heal. Most people suggest practicing acupressure every day. If that is impossible, then practice at least 2-3 times a week. [10] X Research source
The amount of pressure you place onto your body depends on your overall health. When pressing, you might feel a bit of soreness or pain, but it should be a balance between pain and pleasure. Some points will feel tense; others will feel sore or ache when you press them. If you feel extreme or increasing pain, gradually decrease the pressure until you feel a balance of pain and pleasure. Do not think of acupressure as increasing your endurance to pain. If something is so painful it’s too uncomfortable or excruciating, then stop. [12] X Research source
The middle finger is the best for applying pressure to the pressure points. It is the longest and strongest of your fingers. People also use the thumb, too. To correctly manipulate a pressure point, use something blunt. For some pressure points, the fingers may be too thick. Objects that have a 3-4 mm thickness, like used pencil eraser, are ideal. Other objects you can use are an avocado pit or a golf ball. Some pressure points can be pressed using a fingernail. [14] X Research source
If you are pulling the skin, the angle of the pressure is incorrect. You want to apply the pressure at the center of the point. [15] X Research source Make sure to press on the right spot. These acupressure points are very small, so they have to be precise. If you don’t feel any effects, then try different spots. When performing acupressure, you want to look for sore pressure points. If there is no blockage, you won’t feel any effect from pressing the point and won’t need to treat it. [16] X Research source Relaxing can also help emphasize the effects. [17] X Research source
To get the full effect of acupressure, press for at least 2-3 minutes. If your hand gets tired, slowly withdraw the pressure, shake your hand, and breathe deeply. Then reapply the pressure. [19] X Research source
Most believe that the gradual pressing and releasing of pressure points help make the treatments more effective. [20] X Research source
Try doing deep breathing during acupressure. That will encourage your nervous system to slow down, and will also help the acupressure point release any pain or tension. [21] X Expert Source Peter D’Aquino, L. Ac, MS, NCCAOMLicensed Acupuncturist Expert Interview. 14 April 2020. Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Any kind of restricting clothing, like belts, tight pants, or even shoes, can obstruct the circulation. You shouldn’t use acupressure techniques right before a big meal or on a full stomach. Wait for at least an hour after eating so that you don’t get nauseated. Don’t drink iced drinks because that can counteract the effects of acupressure. Instead, drink hot herbal tea afterwards. [22] X Research source Wait at least half an hour after heavy exercise or taking a bath. [23] X Research source
Clasp your hands, then open them while keeping your fingers laced. Form a cup shape with your palms. You will use the thumbs to massage the pressure point. To find this pressure point, place your interlocked hands behind your head. Use your thumbs to find the depressions at the base of your skull. They should be about 2 inches (5 cm) from the middle of your neck. These depressions will be below the skull and beside your neck muscles. Press your thumbs in and slightly upwards towards your eyes.
Drop your head forward. Find the round knob at the top of the spine, and then the ball of your shoulder. GB21 is located halfway between these two places. Use your finger to apply steady downward pressure to this point. You can also press the point between the thumb and index finger with your opposite hand. Then, massage the spot in a downward motion with the finger for 4-5 seconds while releasing the hold. Use caution with this acupressure point on pregnant women. This pressure point is used to induce labor.
To stimulate this area, apply pressure on the webbing between your index finger and thumb. Focus on the area towards the middle of your hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones. Apply steady, firm pressure as you pinch. This pressure point has also been associated with inducing labor.
Find the point by going two fingers lengths above where the skin of your big toe and second toe join. Using a blunt object, press firm pressure to this point. This must be done with the shoes off.
Place your hand so your palm is facing you with your fingers towards the ceiling. Lay the first 3 fingers of your opposite hand across your wrist. Touch your thumb to your wrist just below your index finger. You should feel 2 large tendons. Use both your thumb and forefinger to press this point. Make sure to apply this technique to both wrists. [30] X Research source
Place 4 fingers below your kneecap on the front of your leg. Below your fingers, you should feel a depression between the shinbone and leg muscle. The point is outside of the bone. Press this point using a fingernail or thumbnail. This helps you can closer to the bone. [32] X Research source
Make a thumbs up. Find the depression at the base of your thumb where two tendons are. The pressure point is about a thumbs width away from that spot, along the side of your arm where you feel a bone sticking out. [34] X Research source Press. You can use the nail of your thumb or index finger.
