About Acupressure
Acupressure is a form of ancient Chinese medicine which is similar to acupuncture with the exception that needles are not used. Acupressure is based upon the principles of acupuncture; there are 14 meridians---or channels---that run throughout the body. These channels, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as tsubos, allow electro-magnetic energy to circulate throughout our systems.
When certain areas of these meridians become blocked by stress or illness, the points along them which are near the surface of the skin (known as acupoints or pressure points) can be manipulated by a finger, knuckle or small blunt object in order to open them and allow energy---or Qi (otherwise known as chi), blood and fluids to flow freely again, which is believed to facilitate healing.
History
The most commonly held theory about the origin of acupressure and acupuncture is that more than 5,000 years ago, when wars were fought with arrows and spears, soldiers experienced healing of chronic ailments after being struck in certain spots on their bodies.
In the following centuries, sages and medicine men were able to map the locations of the most effective acupoints. The Nei Ching classic on internal medicine, thought to have been written during emperor Huang Ti's reign between 2697 and 2596 B.C., is the oldest documented text on the subject.
Acupressure and acupuncture were not brought to the Western world until the 17th century when Christians traveled to the East to convert the Chinese and returned with information regarding incredible healing as a result of acupoint therapy.
Function
Acupressure can be used to treat many common ailments such as headache, nausea (from pregnancy, motion sickness and even cancer treatments) and menstrual cramps. Acupressure is typically administered by an acupuncturist, however, because it is a relatively simple technique to learn, acupoints may be massaged by anyone right in their own home. Of course, results will vary as an acupuncturist is highly trained to do this kind of treatment.
There are approximately 365 healing acupoints. Once the appropriate point is located, firm pressure is applied for 30 seconds to two minutes---sometimes massaging in small circles, depending upon the ailment---then pressure is gradually reduced for another 30 seconds.
Effects
Following acupressure treatment, patients may experience soreness at the acupoints as well as light-headedness or dizziness. These effects are normal, present no danger and are temporary. Vigorous acupressure, particularly when done within the Shiatsu method of massage, may result in bruising, especially in individuals who are predisposed to bruising easily. Overall, side effects of acupressure are very rare.
Benefits
Acupressure yields many benefits including relief of various pains and ailments, improved circulation of blood and fluids and an increased sense of well-being. It is also widely believed that the use of acupoints increases the effectiveness of the immune system and offers its users a higher energy level and lower anxiety.
Warning
Acupressure is safe for most people, however, if you have serious symptoms of illness you should consult your health care provider first. Those with a heart condition should not use acupoint therapy and only certain points should be used on women who are pregnant. Do not perform acupressure on areas of skin which are bruised, lacerated or have any anomaly such as a mole or wart.
Tags: acupoint therapy, blood fluids