Acupressure is a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, a system based on the idea that the circulation of qi, or vital life energy, is the key to good physical health and emotional well-being. By stimulating key points on the body, acupressure can help ease chronic pain, induce relaxation and work as a gentle, natural complement to other medical or alternative therapies.
History
Originating in India over 5000 years ago, acupressure spread to Asia and Egypt through traveling Buddhist monks, according to John Cross, world authority on alternative healing. In his book "Acupressure: Clinical Applications in Musculo-Skeletal Conditions," Cross notes that through a painstaking process of observation, played out over the centuries, ancient Chinese medicine practitioners mapped places on the body that became tender when their patients were ill with particular diseases. Stimulating these points relieved the symptoms of illness and helped create optimal health.
Theory
Acupressure works by manipulating the way that qi--vital life energy--flows throughout your body. Qi naturally circulates through all living systems along channels called "meridians," according to the website Wellness Acupressure. When we suffer from emotional stress, mental strain or injury, these factors can block qi or cause it to flow too abundantly. Acupressure points sit along the meridians and act like traffic lights. Stimulating the points causes the lights to turn green, so the smooth flow of qi can resume and any blockages can clear.
Types
A typical acupressure session usually begins with a diagnostic exam. The practitioner will probably examine your tongue, feel your pulse and interview you about any symptoms you might have. Based on her findings, she will press and massage any acupoints that are relevant to your healing process. Variations on standard acupressure include Jin Shin Do, a technique that emphasizes treating body and mind together, according to the Jin Shin Do Foundation website. Tui na is a Chinese form of therapy that includes soft tissue massage and pressure point manipulation.
Benefits
Studies have demonstrated acupressure's ability to ease pain, as well as its usefulness in relieving nausea. In a 2010 study published in the journal "Complementary Therapies in Medicine," Kristina McFadden and Theresa Hernandez of the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of Colorado demonstrated that acupressure could significantly lower heart rate in stroke patients. The results of the study show that acupressure has the potential to effect positive physical change on a deep internal level.
Considerations
If you want to achieve therapeutic benefits from acupressure, your best bet is to go to a qualified professional. As of 2010, the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine registers qualified acupressure practitioners under the designation Asian Bodywork Therapist. NCCAOM requires that practitioners pass an exam and meet rigorous training standards before they can register. This organization maintains an online database that can help you find a practitioner near you.
References
- "Acupressure: Clinical Applications in Musculo-Skeletal Conditions"; John R. Cross; 2000
- Wellness Acupressure: How Does Acupressure Work?
- Jin Shin Do Foundation for Bodymind Acupressure: The Development of Jin Shin Do Bodymind Acupressure
- University of Colorado at Boulder, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience: Cardiovascular Benefits of Acupressure (Jin Shin) Following Stroke
- National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine: NCCAOM Certification Registry
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