According to The Acupressure Institute in California, acupressure is an ancient healing art that stimulates the body's own healing abilities by applying uniform pressure to specific points on the body. Despite its longevity, the science of acupressure as a therapeutic practice has only recently been explored by researchers. Regardless, acupressure masters say that using the power of touch to restore the flow of natural energy in the body is safe and can be used successfully for depression.
How to Apply Pressure
Preferably using the middle finger, apply and release pressure slowly to each point, holding for up to three minutes. Without massaging the area, hold firm pressure until it "hurts good," says The Acupressure Institute. A good rule of thumb is to apply slow, even but firm pressure with your finger at a 90-degree angle. You should begin to feel a pulsing beneath your finger, this means that blood flow is increasing in that area.
St 36: Three Mile Point
One of the most popular pressure points to treat depression is located on the front of the leg. Located four finger-widths below the kneecap and one inch outside of the shinbone, the three mile point is helpful at relieving fatigue and depression, says Holisticonline.com.
GV19, GV 20, GV 21: Head Points
The posterior summit (GV19), one hundred meeting point (GV 20), and anterior summit (GV 21) are located on top of the head. Holisticonline.com says you can find GV 20 by placing your right thumb on top of your right ear and your left thumb on top of your left ear then move your fingertips toward the top of your head. GV 20 is about one inch in front of the hollow near the top center of your head. The inside of the hollow area is GV19. GV 21 is situated one inch in front of GV 20. Apply steady, firm pressure to these points. Relaxation and deep breathing will allow the anxiety and depression to melt away.
B10: Heavenly Pillar
On the back of the head at the base of the skull are several great pressure points for easing the emotional distress of depression. Located about a half an inch from the base of the skull on the edge of the hollow area are pressure points B10. They lie on the muscles bordering the spine, one on each side of the spine.
GB 20: Wind Pond
Again at the base of the skull, these two points can be located in the hollows of the two large neck muscles. They lie about a half-inch above the B10 points, near the top of the hollow area at the base of the skull. Pressing them will help relieve depression, neck tension, headache and irritability.
