Acupressure is a part of traditional Chinese medicine, or TCM. Acupressure.com defines the practice as an ancient healing art that uses the fingers and other parts of the body to skillfully press key points that stimulate the body's natural self-curative abilities. It is a holistic medicine that aims to treat dysfunction or disorder in the body. Acupressure and acupuncture work with the same points, called acupuncture or acupressure points, and the same energy lines, called meridians.
History
Acupressure may actually be older than acupuncture, which means it might date back 5,000 years or more. One theory is that acupressure came about when Chinese physicians noticed interesting physiological changes to soldiers who were wounded at certain points on their bodies. Even though acupressure has been practiced as part of Chinese medicine for thousands of years, it was relatively unknown in the western world until the 1970s, when journalists observed acupuncture while on a visit to China with President Richard Nixon.
General Benefits
Acupressure is typically more cost effective than many traditional western medicine treatments, according to Acupuncture Today. The risk of side effects is low. It can be done by just about anyone, just about anywhere because there is no special equipment necessary. The only requirement is knowing where to press. This can be beneficial in cases of sudden illnesses when medication is not available.
Physical Benefits
Chinese medicine believes that acupressure helps to stimulate the balanced flow of qi, or energy, through the meridians of the human body. By balancing the flow of qi, the body can function properly so it can heal itself. The general physical health benefits include stress reduction, strengthening of the immune system, relaxation of the muscles and increase in the blood flow. The list of symptoms and medical conditions that acupressure helps to treat is extensive. It includes headaches, female reproductive disorders, nausea, sinus problems, asthma, allergies and many other conditions.
Acupressure Process
Acupressure can be done alone or with a partner. You must know which points are appropriate to stimulate for the condition you are treating. To perform acupressure, you use your thumb or finger to press on the points with firm pressure, one at a time. You then hold the point or use small circles to massage the area. You'll continue holding the point for 30 seconds to three minutes or longer. You can stimulate the point until the symptoms reduce or resolve, or until the point stops being tender or becomes numb. Repeat the massage as necessary. The selected points can be stimulated in any order.
Caution
Although acupressure is safe, caution should be used on points in the groin, armpit, throat and abdominal areas. Bruising or pain may occur at any of the points if a point is too heavily stimulated. Pregnant women should only use acupressure under the supervision of a professional, as there are several points that can stimulate labor. Acupressure should never be done over healing wounds or in areas with active infections. If you are suffering from any chronic or serious health condition, you should always seek the advice of a professional before trying any treatment at home.
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