Acupressure is an ancient Chinese healing therapy. By identifying and stimulating pressure points on the body, it promotes a natural healing process. Most people are familiar with the Chinese healing treatment known as acupuncture, which uses needles. While this procedure is now widely accepted as a viable treatment option, acupressure is less invasive and can provide similar results. By balancing the body's energy, acupressure can relieve the body of stress and tension, improve circulation and help the body fight sickness.
How Acupressure Works
According to traditional Asian medicine, the body has an energy flow which , if interrupted, can cause sickness. As long as the flow has no obstruction, the body's organs function properly. The number of pressure points in the body act as channels for the energy flow, and if flow is interrupted, applying pressure to these points can release the energy to move once again. The acupressure procedure of applying pressure to certain points in the body can also be used in conjunction with massage therapy.
Acupressure Techniques
Since the application of pressure is needed on certain points of the body, using the tip of your finger, knuckle or the eraser head of a pencil is recommended. Some points are shallow and only slight pressure is needed, while others are deep and need more pressure to be used in order to relieve symptoms.
Pressure Points
Once you have found the pressure point for your specific ailment, you need to apply pressure for approximately 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat the procedure on the opposite side of your body. You might feel spontaneous relief in the form of sinus drainage, belching, and pain and tension release depending on your pressure point and what symptoms you have. If you feel worse, discontinue that pressure point.
Benefits
Acupressure is used to alleviate many health conditions such as arthritis, asthma, flu and colds, stress, headaches, menstrual cramps and toothaches. Unlike acupuncture, a professional is not needed to perform the techniques. You can learn and apply the procedures on yourself or on another person, thereby saving on costly treatments. Using these techniques can improve your immune system, reduce tension and provide an overall sense of well being, as well.
Concerns
You should not use acupressure if you are pregnant or have heart disease. Acupressure should never be used in place of standard medical procedures. If you are seriously ill or have symptoms that do not go away, you need to contact your physician for a clinical diagnosis. People taking blood thinners should not use acupressure, except under a doctor's supervision. Acupressure should only be used as an additional part of your normal health routine.
Tags: points body, pressure point, Acupressure should, applying pressure, body energy