Meridian Acupressure Points & Health Benefits

In his book, "Acupressure's Potent Points," Michael Reed Gach states, "Meridians are pathways that connect the acupressure points to each other as well as to internal organs." These meridians carry electrical energy to areas of the body similar to the way the veins and arteries carry blood. During acupressure, pressure points on the meridians are stimulated, usually from the thumb or fingers. This stimulation is thought to send a message through the meridian to assist in the healing of such ailments as headaches, nausea and sinus problems.

Headaches

Just as there are several types of headaches, such as tension and sinus headaches, there are also several pressure points that may relieve them. These include gallbladder 20, bladder 2 and large intestine 4. Gallbladder 20 consists of two points on the back of the neck. Pressure on these points may be useful in relieving migraines. Bladder 2 consists of two points on the eyebrows. Pressure on these points may be useful in relieving sinus headaches. Large intestine 4 is found on the muscle between the thumb and index finger and may be stimulated to relieve headaches at the front of the head. Large intestine 4 should never be stimulated during pregnancy.

Nausea

The benefits of acupressure for nausea have been recognized by such institutions as the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center. There are many points that may relieve nausea, including pancreas 5 and pancreas 6, both on the forearm. Other points that may relieve nausea include stomach 36, on the shin, and liver 3, on the foot.

Sinus Problems

In addition to bladder 2, mentioned above as a pressure point for sinus headache, there are numerous other points that can be used for sinus problems. Stomach 3 and large intestine 20 are both on the face, bladder 10 is on the back of the neck and bladder 7 is on the top of the head.

Insomnia

According to Gach, there are typically three sets of points used when dealing with insomnia. Bladder 62 and kidney 6 are on the foot, gallbladder 20 is at the base of the skull and bladder 38 is between the shoulder blades.

General Health Benefits

Along with being an excellent way to relieve symptoms, acupressure can also be used for health maintenance. Regular acupressure treatments can boost immunity and increase energy. Acupressure can also relax the body and mind especially when combined with deep breathing.

Warnings

While it is possible to do acupressure on your own, a trained acupressure practitioner should always be consulted for instruction on the exact location of points.