Acupressure is an alternative-health method of treating stress and pain that is centered on the maintenance of a balance in life, which is referred to as qi (chi). Qi is a life energy that proponents of acupressure believes is present in every single living organism. Qi is said to circulate along 12 meridians, which are simply energy paths located throughout the body. Each meridian is attached to a specific organ or body system. Within this system are located over 1,000 acupoints, each of which can be stimulated by the application of pressure.
Identification
Acupressure is accomplished by applying pressure--sometimes light and sometimes a bit harder--to a certain point with the fingers, thumbs and hands. Occasionally, the elbows or even the knees are used. Most acupressure-reactive points are located on areas of the body that sensitive to pressure; therefore, the response given by the recipient is very important, since too harsh a response can mean that the pressure is not being applied to the correct spot.
Time Frame
The length of time for which acupressure is placed on a single pressure point can vary considerably. The average time is between 15 and 30 seconds, but depending on the type of massage and the actual pressure being applied, it could be expanded to a couple of minutes. Acupressure is applied in a series, much like a massage, and a single session--in which many applications of pressure are made--usually lasts about 30 minutes.
Significance
The most significant step in acupressure involves finding the actual points; doing so requires research and education. Once you have discovered where the pressure points are located, the next step is to apply pressure for about 30 seconds. Next, repeat this on the pressure point located on the opposite side of the body. If you do it correctly, you will begin to feel a release of tension. If those initial pressure points do not do the trick, try another point somewhere else until you discover a place that provides relief.
Benefits
Once the correct pressure points have been found, acupressure can provide an incredible array of benefits. The primary benefit of finding the perfect point is that it can treat quite specific health problems. Overall relief of tension and stress can be accomplished through most any pressure point, but certain points may be able to treat specific medical conditions and disorders. Certain acupressure points have also been proven helpful in maintaining regular menstrual cycles, relieving childbirth pain and even boosting energy.
Misconceptions
The biggest misconception about acupressure involves the confusion between acupressure and acupuncture. The pressure points that are identified in acupressure do not receive any needle treatment whatever. The only items that are used in the massage therapy of acupressure are parts of the body. Acupressure and acupuncture do share one feature, however: the belief in the meridian system of qi.
Warning
Acupressure should never act as a replacement for standard medical care. If you have suffered a serious injury or experience chronic pain or lingering symptoms, seek traditional medical treatment immediately. In addition, it is not advisable to engage in acupressure treatments within 30 minutes before or after heavy exercise or a hot shower or bath. Acupressure should be avoided on any point that features a bruise, cut, wart, mole or varicose vein. Any woman who is more than 3 months pregnant should probably not undergo acupressure.
Potential
The future of acupressure looks to be one in which electrical devices are used, to the detriment of certified acupressure specialists. A variety of new devices and tools have lately flooded the market that allow a user himself to apply electrical stimulation to the acupressure points. A few of these devices are even capable of locating the acupressure points on either yourself or someone else.
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