Acupressure technique has the ability to encourage digestion by treating energies that are directly involved in the body’s digestive processes, and by inducing overall bodily relaxation, which helps the body metabolize and eliminate wastes. According to acupressure theory, as explained by New York University’s Langone Medical Center, all movement, growth and change that takes place within the body must be balanced to work effectively. Using acupressure specific points for digestion can help to ensure overall digestive health.
Pericardium 6
The Pericardium 6, or “Inner Gate” acupressure point is well-known for the treatment of nausea and digestive balance. According to the Institute of Sacred Lotus Arts, nausea and hiccups are sometimes caused when your qi, or life force energy, flows upward instead of downward. Massaging the “Inner Gate” can help the qi flow in the intended natural direction. Many of the magnetic acupressure bracelets that are on the market to encourage digestion and treat motion sickness focus on the Pericardium 6 point. To locate you “Inner Gate” point, hold out your hand palm side up. Measure about two thumbnails length from the center of the wrist crease toward your hand from your elbow.
Large Intestine 4
The Large Intestine 4, or the “Joining of the Valley” acupressure point can help you if you are suffering from constipation. The institute of Sacred Lotus Arts reports that, like nausea, constipation may come, in part, from an incorrect direction, or rebellious, flow of qi. To find your “Joining of the Valley” acupressure point, grasp the webbing between the thumb and index finger with the thumb and index finger of your opposite hand. Move your grasp to find the spot where the muscle that joins the two appendages comes together to form a “V.”
Kidney 1
According to the Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies, the Kidney 1, or “Gushing Spring” acupressure point is thought to be useful for treating digestive problems that are exacerbated by bouts of diarrhea. The same rebellious flow of qi that is thought to be responsible for constipation is implicated in diarrhea. Using Large Intestine 4 and Kidney 1 in conjunction with one another can often help overall digestive balance. “Gushing Spring” is found on the sole of the foot. Place your finger between the second and third metatarsal bones and move towards the heel a third of the way.
Acupressure Massage Technique
Specific acupressure technique varies from practitioner to practitioner and maybe depending on the desired results from the procedure. Alex A. Kecskes of the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine says that common acupressure massage technique is the use of your fingers and thumbs and, in some cases, blunt objects. The pressure used to massage the acupressure point is classified as medium pressure and the massage can be by rubbing, kneading or using vibration. Larger appendages, like elbows and knees may be used in the application of acupressure as well.
References
- Institute of Sacred Lotus Arts: Qi, Blood, and Fluid Pattern Differentiation
- Oncology Nursing Society; P6 Acupressure Can Help Patients Self-Manage Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea; Elisa Becze; 2010
- Acupressure.com: Immune System Boosting: Acupressure Points & Methods for Strengthening Immunity
- Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies; Ten Highly Effective Acupressure Points; 2005
- Pacific College of Oriental Medicine; Using Acupuncture to Relieve Pain and Anxiety; Alex A. Kecskes
- New York University Langone Medical Center: Acupuncture
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