Acupressure

Acupressure

Over 5,000 years ago the Chinese discovered that pressing specific points across the body that they could relieve pain and influence the functioning of certain internal organs. Acupressure is an ancient healing art that is compared to acupuncture but without the needles. Using the fingers or non-powered orthopedic devises a pressure is applied to key points on the surface of the skin to arouse the bodies natural self-curative abilities. When certain points are pressed they release muscular tension and promote blood circulation. Acupressure is the most effective self-treatment of tension-related ailments by using the power of the hands and fingers or non-powered home acupressure modalities.

There are some advantages of self-administered acupressure:

• There is no risk of side-effects from drugs, because there are no drugs
• The only equipment needed are your hands or acupressure modalities that are relatively cheap
• It is safe even if you’ve never done it before
• You can apply acupressure anywhere and anytime, cost free

Acupressure is used by complimentary and alternative health practitioners to relieve pain from: headaches, arthritis, neck pain, back pain, hip pain, eye strain, muscle aches, and many other chronic conditions especially tension due to stress. By relieving stress, acupressure strengthens resistance to disease and promotes wellness.

How does Acupressure work?

Acupressure points are isolated locations on the skin that are sensitive to pressure. Asian cultures have perceived these points as junctures of special pathways that have been labeled the chi by the Chinese and ki by the Japanese. Stimulating these trigger points with pressure, releases endorphins that help block pain. As the pain is blocked the flow of blood and oxygen to the affected area is increased, which promotes healing. Acupressure can help to rebalance the body by dissolving tensions and stresses that keep it from functioning smoothly and that inhibit the immune system. When the blood circulates properly we have a greater sense of harmony, health, and well-being.

Most of the chronic conditions that American citizens suffer from arthritis, diabetes, chronic fatigue, obesity, and on and on are a direct result of living unnaturally. Stress has been a part of our culture for years but not until the last several decades has it gotten completely out of control. The amount of stress we ask our systems to overcome is unrealistic and the national medical bills and statistics prove this fact.

Acupressure is one effective strategy that we can utilize in order to face the pressures and stress of today and begin achieving a better quality-of-life.

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