What is Acupressure?

Acupressure is treatment within traditional Chinese medicine. Chinese medicine therapies influence a system of interconnected channels that run throughout our bodies. These channels do not simply lie on the outside of the body, but are more like waterways which link the upper body to the lower and the internal organs to the skin surface.

Qi, the body’s vital energy, moves through these channels. Qi movement is essential for health. Stress can cause the qi to stagnate and stop, which can lead to a number of diseases and pain.

Acupuncture points are locations on the channels where qi tends to gather and are areas where the channels can be more easily influenced from the skin’s surface. Some points are very deep while others are more shallow, depending on the body part and symptom being treated.

Acupressure is the manual stimulation of acupuncture points and can be used to promote circulation in the acupuncture channels. Often the points are slightly sensitive. As you get more practice, it will become easier to feel the correct level of pressure.

How to use acupressure?

Acupressure can be used to prevent issues or to treat symptoms when you are experiencing them.

Because Chinese medicine is primarily concerned with preventing disease before it occurs, the best way to use acupressure is by stimulating these points every day, much like a workout or stretching. Another method is by stimulating the points only when you are experiencing symptoms.

Different from medication Chinese medicine does not just give you a pill, but rather works to treat the root imbalance of the problem. By correcting the imbalance, your body can work to heal itself and Chinese medicine will have a lasting result.

Many people ask me about the difference between acupressure, acupuncture, and Chinese herbs. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs, in general, can address deeper more entrenched imbalances. At the same time, regular daily acupressure can help correct the deeper imbalances.

The body changes slowly. It is important to be diligent. We say that it takes 100 days for the acupressure to begin to correct the imbalance.

Read more on Acupressure:

You can use these acupressure points as a self massage to help boost your energy, improve digestion, reduce pain, and prevent illness.

• Acupressure for Cramps, Digestive Problems, and Boosting Energy
• Acupressure for Nausea, Hiccups, and Acid Reflux
• Acupressure for Headaches

And check back tomorrow for an acupressure routine for insomnia, stress reduction, and jet lag.