What to know about Acupressure

Acupressure and acupuncture, used for thousands of years in Eastern medicine, have both gained recognition across the Pacific in the past few decades. Both acupressure and acupuncture offer tremendous health benefits, and fall under the category of alternative medicine. By targeting specific pressure points in the body and bringing the meridian system into balance these techniques manage a variety of ailments, diseases, and health problems. Even simple health problems such as headaches, migraines, muscle aches, and fatigue can be addressed with both techniques. Many people suffer from excessive tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back – acupressure techniques can be used to release this tension after just a few sessions.

When the meridian system is restored and is in balance, the result is an optimal state of health and well-being. This can also lead to expanded awareness, mental clarity, and improved physical health.

How Acupressure and Acupuncture Work

The human body contains a number of pressure points that affect the central nervous system. The body is connected not only with muscles and joints, but also an invisible source of energy known as the meridian system. The meridian system connects joint, organs, and muscles with energy, and this helps keep the nervous system in balance. People suffering from pain, nausea, or even fatigue may be experiencing an energy ‘block.’

Acupressure and acupuncture target specific pressure points on the body to release this energy “block” and restore the body to optimal health. Acupressure uses the strength of the practitioner’s fingers to affect these pressure points, while acupuncture makes use of tiny needles.

An acupuncturist applies various methods and techniques to target specific areas in the body, and the techniques are usually performed on a massage table. Various points in the body are targeted for a period of 30-60 seconds, with the goal of releasing blockages and restoring energy flow. Acupressure reduces the pain signals sent to the brain which in turn, releases blood and oxygen flow to the affected areas.

Acupuncture and Luo Points

According to acupuncture theory, Luo points are the twelve most important places in the meridian system. Luo points are connected to areas such as the gall bladder, lungs, small intestines, and even the heart. Applying acupuncture needles to the meridian that links to these areas can restore any problems associated with the organs. Still, there are over 365 points in the meridian system, and both acupressure and acupuncture techniques can be used to keep these in an optimal state.

Types of Acupressure

There are dozens of different acupressure techniques used today, and most originated in the Far East. The most common types of acupressure are:
• Su Jok Acupressure – acupressure techniques applied to only the hands and feet
• Jin Shin Acupressure – used to reduce emotional stress and remove physical tension in key areas of the body
• Shiatsu Massage Acupressure – targeting specific areas to reduce stress and increase circulation
• Anma Acupressure – using kneading motions to affect the meridian system
• Reflexology – applying sustained pressure to the hands and feet
• Pressure Acupuncture – using needles to correct ailments and health imbalances, and often used to correct functionality of external and internal organs
If you’re considering a new approach for managing your health, acupressure and acupuncture bring thousands of years of success in the East to your backyard.

What to know about Acupressure

How Acupressure and Acupuncture Work

Acupuncture and Luo Points

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