Acupressure
for
Self-Care By Natasha Kubis
A
cupressure is an effective self-care technique to help us relax and de-stress, whether at the office, at home, or in a tense work meeting. It is convenient, inexpensive, and easy to do. It is also safe to practice on infants and children. Knowing which acu-points to stimulate can help you treat a variety of conditions including headache, indigestion, muscle tension, or anxiety. This technique became popular in China as a natural extension of acupuncture, using pressure from the fingers, as an alternative to inserting needles into the skin. It is a good option for those who are needle phobic. There are over 2,000 acupoints on the body that are located at nerve endings. Stimulating these points allows different parts of the body to communicate, triggering the release of opioids, which are naturally occurring chemicals in the brain that have an analgesic, or pain-relieving, effect. The release of opioids, such as endorphins, help to decrease feelings of pain and increase feelings of euphoria A recent study at the University of Michigan looked at 67 people with chronic lower back pain and divided them into groups: those using acupressure, and those sticking to their prescribed treatment method from 10
thesofiamagazine.com | November 2020
their primary care doctor. The acupressure group applied the technique to certain body parts for 30 minutes a day, for 6 weeks. The study concluded that the acupressure group found significant improvement in both pain and fatigue, without the use of pain medications, or their side effects. This study was particularly important because it confirms the effectiveness of more natural pain management solutions.
What are the Benefits of Acupressure? • A cupressure acts to massage and stretch the muscles, while increasing blood flow to the tissues. • I t stimulates the body’s natural ability to suppress pain without the over-dependency on painkillers, which is important during our current opiate crisis. • S tudies have found acupuncture points at sites of high-density neuro-vascular structures. When we stimulate those areas, we are promoting secretion of naturally occurring neurotransmitters, like endorphins, which help minimize pain. • I t is calming for the nervous system, while reducing stress and anxiety. • I t is convenient to do anytime at the office or at home. • It is free. • I t can be done on children and infants.
Acupressure Technique • U se deep, firm pressure to massage and stimulate each point.
• W hen massaging acu-points, try to relax in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and breathe deeply. • S timulate each point anywhere from 1 to 5 minutes. • R epeat the massage as often as you like; there is no limit to the number of times a day. • B esides massaging these points with your fingers, you can use various tools to help you along, such as an electric massage tool, a tennis ball, or a golf ball. Try some of these common acupressure protocols on yourself or your loved ones if these uncomfortable symptoms should arise!
Acupressure Points for Headache Relief • L arge Intestine 4 is used to treat diseases of the head and face and is the primary point for headaches, tooth, or jaw pain. It is located on the back of the hand, between the thumb and pointer finger. Do not use this point during pregnancy.
