Acupressure is an ancient practice that engages pressure points on the body to balance the body's vital energy, or qi. Acupressure teaches that energy flows along pathways in the body known as meridians. Points along these pathways correspond to various organs and functions in the body. According to the Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies, acupressure's ability to relieve stress makes it an effective treatment for strengthening the immune system and promoting overall wellness. Pressure points in the wrists, feet and ears can help calm the mind, relieve anxiety and promote a state of relaxation.
Wrist Points
Known as the inner gate, the P6 point on the inside of the wrist is commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting. It also helps stimulate circulation, regulate the heart beat and promote relaxation. To find the P6 point, measure two thumb widths down from the crease of your wrist and feel for the groove between the tendons on the inside of your wrist. If you have difficulty locating the tendons, clench your fist to make them protrude slightly. After you locate the spot, relax your fist. Press firmly with your thumb. You may feel a slight pain sensation, but it should not be uncomfortable. Maintain the pressure while making small circular movements with your thumb. After one minute, repeat on the other arm.
Another point on the wrist that is helpful for stress and anxiety is the H7 point, known as the spirit gate. According to Holistic Online, acupressure using the spirit gate helps with fear, nervousness and emotional instability. The H7 point lies on the crease of the wrist, towards the little finger, just inside the edge of the wrist bone. As with the P6 point, apply pressure with your thumb while making circular motions. Try these technique two to three times a day as you feel stress and anxiety approaching.
Foot Points
According to traditional Chinese medicine, stress and anxiety relate to the kidneys, heart, liver and spleen. Massaging points on the soles of your feet that correspond to these organs can help relieve emotional distress. While sitting down, lift one foot and place it on your opposite knee so you can see the sole of your foot. Using your thumb, apply pressure in the center line of the sole, about one-third the distance from the bottom of the toes to the heel. This point, known as gushing spring, corresponds to the kidneys. Maintain constant pressure for one to two minutes, then repeat on the other foot. On the right foot, apply pressure directly next to this point, towards the outer edge of the foot, to stimulate the liver. The same area on the left foot corresponds to the heart and spleen.
Ear Points
Points in the ear also relate to various organs in the body. Massaging your ears for several minutes a day can help calm you and improve your sleep quality. Using your thumb and index fingers, gently rub and pull the outside edges of your ears from the top to the bottom. Then use the tips of your index fingers to rub the inner curves and folds of the ear, as well as behind the ears.
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