Acupressure therapy offers a number of healthful advantages, such as reducing stress, increasing blood circulation and relieving pain. For some people, the soothing effect that acupressure has on the body helps to improve their overall physical and mental well-being. While many individuals use the gentle touch of acupressure as a home remedy to treat all kinds of different ailments, it's important to know just where to apply the pressure. Acupressure as a self-treatment can be successful, but there are some fundamental rules to follow.
Step 1
Identify the key acupressure points. Certain trigger points are associated with specific organs and areas of the body.
Step 2
Create a relaxing environment in order to optimize the therapeutic effects of acupressure. Lie down and play soft music in the background. Soft lighting and the scents of essential oils can add to the calming effect.
Step 3
Find a comfortable position that will allow you to perform a few relaxation techniques prior to beginning acupressure therapy. Progressive relaxation is one technique where you begin by relaxing the muscles of your head and face, and then work your way down the body to your toes. Breathe slowly and allow yourself to feel the relaxation as you release each muscle.
Step 4
Begin by pressing the acupressure point firmly with your finger or fingernail. Apply pressure to the point for 30 seconds or for up to two minutes, as needed. Press a point on both sides of the body.
Step 5
Turn your finger in a counterclockwise position over the point for another minute or two. This is referred to as reducing a point. Do this to remove a blockage of energy, which you might feel as pain, tension or heat.
Step 6
Try another spot near the location where you are already applying pressure if you fail to feel any beneficial effects. You may not be pressing on the exact spot.
Tips and Warnings
- Although most people use their fingers to apply pressure, you can press the area with something blunt like the eraser tip of a pencil. The Canadian Massage and Acupressure Therapists Association points out that if you go to a professional practitioner for therapy, the therapist may elect to use techniques for applying pressure with fingers, palms of the hands, elbows, knees or even feet to manipulate various acupressure points on the body. Another example of a relaxation technique you can use is to close your eyes and imagine yourself in a pleasant place such as fishing from the bank of a quiet lake.
- Avoid applying pressure to the same points every day. Only practice acupressure techniques when necessary.
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