The Healing Properties of Acupressure

Acupressure is an ancient healing art that relies upon the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) concept of energy meridians in the body, and is the practice of applying pressure to specific points of the body along these meridians. Acupressure achieves the same goal as acupuncture, which is to open up blocked or compromised energy pathways within the body, but they differ in that acupressure does not use needles. The TCM philosophy behind acupressure and acupuncture is that we all have energy meridians, or internal lines, that guide the flow of energy within the body. When certain symptoms or conditions arise, it may be due to a block in the meridian or stagnant energy, causing the body to become imbalanced and manifest illness.In TCM, stimulating specific points on the body with either acupressure or acupuncture is thought to restore the proper flow of energy to address stagnant or blocked energy. In Japan, acupressure is called Shiatsu.

 

There are 360 main energy points and 12 main energy meridians on the human body, according to TCM. The energy points act as accessible surface extensions of our internal organs. By pinpointing where the energy flow is compromised, we can help to naturally restore the body’s energy balance for good health. Techniques which promote proper flow of energy are fundamental in many Eastern health practices, and as a TCM practitioner and a regular meditator with over 30 years of experience, I have been relying on such energy balancing practicesto help restorethe health and vitality of my patients. Learn moreabout energy healing and the power of meditation.

 

Research has shown that acupressure is a valuable tool for combating nausea, among other common ailments. Some studies have even shown acupressure as a better remedy for nausea than anti-nausea and anti-vomiting drugs. By simply stimulating points on the wrist, acupressure techniques cause the brain to release feel-good chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine or endorphins that block chemicals responsible for feelings of nausea and vomiting. Acupressure can also benefit those dealing with fatigue, as shown in studies.

 

The traditional practices of ancient health care systems are kept alive for a good reason: they help people. Combining the time-tested methods of ancient health care with the discoveries of modern science is a truly unique and holistic strategy to achieve wellness. Focusing on the person and the body, rather than only the symptoms, allows the freedom to personalize a health plan best suited for an individual’s condition. If you have not yet found the best solution for a condition you have, consider speaking with a certified acupuncturist or acupressure therapist. Learn more information about these and other helpful treatment modalities here.