Acupressure is a healing method that has been used for more than 5,000 years. Acupressure works on the same premise that acupuncture does -- stimulating meridians and energy points -- except that acupressure uses finger pressure rather than needles. Mood swings, insomnia, hot flashes and other common symptoms of menopause can be treated with acupressure. Acupressure has no dangers or side effects but it doesn’t necessarily work for everybody. Talk to your doctor if you experience no relief and need help.
Hot Flashes
Using your index and middle fingers together, press the space right between your eyebrows. At the same time, use the same two fingers from your other hand to press the small indentation right on the top of your head. Dr. Susan Lark, who specializes in preventive and natural medicine, recommends this face pressure point to help relieve hot flashes. The same point will also help relieve headaches, she says.
Reproductive Organs
According to gynecologist Dr. Kala Ashok Shah on her website Menopause Health Club, women undergoing menopause can use acupressure to stimulate the reproductive organs. This will improve the overall health of your reproductive organs and ease the transition into menopause. Place your palm against your leg, above your inner anklebone. The acupressure point is located right above your palm, on a direct line to the anklebone. The second point is one palm-width down from your kneecap, on both legs. Once you find the points, press and hold for at least 10 seconds. Release and repeat a few times.
Sleep Problems
Although many sleep problems in menopause are related to night sweats, some might be connected to other issues, such as anxiety, aches or general discomfort. To help with this, you can use the acupressure point that helps regulate sleep. This point is located right under the bottom of your nail on the big toe. Find the center of your nail and then move slightly toward the side closest to your other toes.
Mood Swings
Mood swings during menopause can affect your quality of life and disrupt those around you. Crying spells or sadness that comes for no apparent reason are common occurrences. If you’re having difficulty functioning day to day, talk to a doctor, as you could be suffering from clinical depression. The acupressure point for depression is very close to the one for your reproductive organs. Once you have found the point below your kneecap, move your fingers slightly toward the outside of your leg. The point is right between the your leg muscle and shinbone.
