Acupressure for Insomnia, Jet Lag, and Relaxation

This acupressure routine helps promote sleep and relaxation. In addition, it can be used for improving concentration and reducing jet lag.  Often, I will give my patients these particular acupressure points to augment the acupuncture treatments for insomnia.

Yin Tang- The Spirit Gate

Location- on the forehead, in line with the nose above the eyebrows
Stimulation- gently rub downward towards your nose
Function- helps calm the mind and relieve stress

Heart 7- Shen Men (The Spirit Gate)

Gently Massage the Heart Channel for Relaxation

Location- at the wrist on the pinky side of the hand
Stimulation- If trying to go to sleep, gently rub towards the body.  If trying to concentrate or wake up, gently tap.
Function- calms the spirit and nourishes the heart.  This is one of the most important points for insomnia and jet lag because the heart is in charge of the internal clock.  This point will be very good for people who wake up in the middle of the night and cannot fall back asleep.  If you gently tap this point, it can help concentration.

Pericardium 6- Nei Guan (Inner Pass)

Gently Rub PC 6 in small circles

Location- on the center line of the arm, two thumb widths up from the wrist crease
Stimulation- gently rub in a circle or straight towards the body
Function- This point has many functions.  It is most famous for treating nausea and improving digestion, but it is very powerful for managing stress and helping with sleep.  The pericardium surrounds and protects the heart, so stimulating this channel also stimulates the heart.

Rubbing the ears

Ear Acupuncture Model

The ear is a map of the entire body with different body parts and body organs.  By rubbing the ears, you can stimulate the entire body, moving qi and helping you feel more relaxed.

Photo: Pelikanol