Acupressure is a 5,000 year old art form that utilizes pressure exerted by the fingers into various points on the body elicit a healing response. The ancient Chinese approach to natural healing, is based on the same principles as acupuncture, but uses pressure instead of needles. The theory behind the practice is that the pressure releases muscle tension and increases blood flow, enabling the body's life force to heal itself. As with all forms of alternative treatments, acupressure should not be substitued for traditional medical care that you may be receiving for any condition, psychological or physical.
History
Acupressure, also known as Shiatsu in Japan, is an ancient therapeutic method of traditional Chinese medicine. The practice, which dates back thousands of years, was first documented in the Canon of Medicine, the oldest medical transcripts in existence in China. With each dynasty came further developments in the therapy, but rapid progress began to take place after 1949 with the founding of the People's Republic of China. At that time, hospitals, clinics, learning institutions were set up to further the application and training of the healing art form, according to the website Indianetzone.
Theory
Acupressure is based on the theories of meridians, Qi, or chi, blood, visceral or internal organs, and collaterals or channels. Meridians are lines of energy that run through the body. According to the theory, there are 14 main meridian lines, each of which corresponds to a specific organ in the body. By way of the meridians and channels located throughout the body, nutrients, including blood and fluids are transported to vital organs as well as bones, muscles and skin in order to maintain normal body function, according to compwellness.net. The therapeutic stimulation of the specific points stimulates the flow and treats the body as an integrated whole.
Function
The primary function of acupressure therapy is to promote healing and relaxation as well as to encourage the flow of energy or Qi throughout the body. As these actions take place, the body is brought back into a natural state of balance and harmony where healing can take place.
Techniques
Acupressure points are located all over your body, from the back of your neck to the bottom of your feet and even between your thumb and index finger. Once located, there are many different techniques to apply pressure to the specific area. The idea is to apply deep pressure for about one minute at each spot. Other than applying pressure, some therapists may knead, roll, or rub the area as in a deep tissue massage approach, says compwellness.net.
Benefits
In addition to relaxation and healing, proponents of acupressure therapy list a multitude of other ailments that may respond positively to the treatment. Benefits may include reduced blood pressure, increased mental and spiritual awareness, decreased feelings of anxiety and depression and improved breathing and sinus function.
Precautions
Acupressure treatment is not recommended for pregnant women or to treat conditions that normally require medical care, such as infections, stomach ulcers or serious burns. In addition, abdominal pressure points should be avoided when the person is sick, has a terminal illness like intestinal cancer or other life threatening internal organ diseases.
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