Acupuncture treatment has been practiced for thousands of years. The health and wellness benefits of acupuncture are proven to work wonders with many individuals all over the world. There are a lot of people who are keen to learn more about acupuncture and even try it but are afraid of needles.

Well, there is another treatment similar to acupuncture that does not include the dreaded needle! This non-invasive treatment is called Acupressure and can be practiced by your family and friends in the comfort of your own home. This treatment has been regarded in many ways to be just as good as acupuncture but is more convenient and doesn’t involve needles.

Acupressure treatment works the same as acupuncture using the meridian points to generate a person’s body to maintain wellness and encourage healing. Acupressure uses the gentle pressure of touch to increase the body’s self-curative energy.

We have put together some specific points to try in the comfort of your own home which is simple and an effective. It is a good idea, however, to check the pressure points online to ensure that you get the most benefit.

Firstly use your thumb or finger to press in slowly, then hold firmly on the point for 5-10 seconds. Do not hold any firmer than 15 pounds otherwise bruising may occur. Repeat this pressure application four times before doing the other pressure points.

Acupressure can be used to cure these everyday ailments:

• Relief of tension, emotional stress or frustration

The pressure point that is located on the top of the foot that is in between the bones leading to the big and second toe will help release stress and tension. Add pressure on this area by gently pressing this point and the sole of your foot at the same time using the index thumb and index finger.

• Helping a baby with a cold

To help relieve the symptoms of a cold or a sore throat or to improve with circulation and to strengthen the lungs press to the side of the pulse on the side of your wrist between the gap between the bones.

• To relieve tension from the neck and shoulders.

Put firm pressure on top of the muscle found halfway between the prominent vertebra at the back of the neck and the top of the shoulder. You may need a few fingers to help press down the pressure.

• To help with a hangover

Apply pressure of the back on the hand at the webbed area between the thumb and the index finger. This will help with a headache and nausea. Do not use this pressure point if you are pregnant.

• Helping someone suffering from back pain

There are four essential pressure points found on each side of the spine near the waist. By applying pressure to these four points will reduce the back pain.

Acupressure therapy is a beautiful way to help you and your family members enhance health and well being and connect with each other.  

DO’S AND DON’TS OF ACUPRESSURE

• Ensure that you are relaxed when applying acupressure. Make sure that you are in a comfortable position and take deep breaths to promote healing.
• Do not use acupressure on unhealed fractures, broken skin, new scars and inflamed areas.
• Do not press directly on varicose veins on the legs
• Do not use acupressure therapy if you have a fever or suffering from diarrhea.
• Do not use strong pressure on anyone with high blood pressure or osteoporosis.
• Do not use acupressure on the breast or other glandular tissues.