Acupressure is related to acupuncture and is part of the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM. Like acupuncture, acupressure relies on the stimulation of certain points on the body. Unlike acupuncture, however, acupressure does not use needles; instead, the points are stimulated using blunt pressure via fingers, hands, elbows or feet. Once you've learned the relevant pressure points, you ccan perform acupressure on yourself.
Back of the Head
Just below the protruding occipital bone at the back of your head where the skull and neck meet, are two small depressions. These two acupressure points offer relief for a variety of headaches, especially those caused by neck tension or general stress. Use your thumbs to massage these spots in very small circular motions for one to two minutes. Repeat as necessary.
Web of the Hand
This pressure point is located in the webbing between your first finger and your thumb, near the juncture of the bones. Pinch the flesh firmly between your fingers, and hold for two to three minutes. This point relieves general head and facial pain and is especially good for sinus headaches. Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners caution pregnant women against using this point as it can stimulate uterine contractions.
Between The Toes
Located between the first and second toe where the bones meet, you can pinch this point between your thumb and forefinger or simply press the point at the top of the foot with your thumb. Hold for one to two minutes. This spot helps relieve sharp headache pain, including migraines. It is especially effective when stimulated along with the web of the hand pressure point.
On The Forearm
For headaches located in or around the temple, use a point on the forearm, about three finger widths below the crease of the wrist in the center of the arm between the bones. Press with the thumb for one to two minutes.
Side Of The Hand
For headaches located around or behind the eyes, stimulate the point on the little-finger side of your hand, just below the knuckle. Press deeply and hold for one to two minutes. This point also helps relax the neck.
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