Reduced stress, improved sleep, tension headaches? Acupressure points can have strong beneficial effects. They are not without their limitations. However, when used properly it may have a very beneficial effects for patients with minimal side effects.
This is more than just acupressure for stress relief, as the list of conditions that acupressure may benefit is a list that is ever growing.
Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to relieve pain and stress. Here are 5 acupressure points you can try for stress relief, along with science-backed research studies to support their effectiveness:
1. LI 4 (Hegu)
Location: Web between thumb and index finger
Applying pressure to this point may help to relieve stress, anxiety, and tension headaches.
LI 4 is a point is a point I use constantly inside the clinic and outside in my own personal life. I use it while stressed out, I use it in meetings, I use it at the store, or even when listening to patients in the clinic. It is probably one of the most well known acupressure points, and has been well researched and it utilized by many practitioners.
2. Yintang (Third Eye Point)
Location: Between eyebrows, at the spot where the bridge of the nose meets the forehead
This point may help to calm the mind and promote relaxation.
3. GV 20 (Baihui)
Location: Top of the head, in the center of the skull
Applying light acupressure to this point may help to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
I’ve used Du 20 in many situations clinically.
4. LI 10 (Shousanli)
Location: Arm, about 2 inches below the elbow crease
This point may help to relieve stress, anxiety, and tension in the upper body.
I use this point clinically often. I use it for conditions dealing with the forearm, in particular the brachioradialis. I’ve used it clinically for conditions above and below the elbow, including carpel tunnel syndrome, wrist pain, tennis elbow, or rotator cuff issues.
5. KD 1 (Yongquan)
Location: Sole of the foot, in the depression just below the ball of the foot
Applying pressure to this point may help to calm the mind and promote relaxation.
Remember to apply gentle pressure to each point for about 5 seconds, then repeat 2 – 3 times as necessary. Utilize deep breathing help relax the body.
This information is only intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat. Please remember to consult with your healthcare provider for any medical conditions.
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