These simple and effective methods of acupressure can be safely used to alleviate chronic pain.
As always, when engaging in self-acupressure, find a comfortable position before beginning. Take a minute or two for focused deep breathing to ease into a peaceful state.
Head Corner for Headache Relief
You can find the Head Corner point on your hairline, roughly in the area just above the end of your eyebrows. If there's not much hair to judge by, take your best guess. If you imagine your head as a square, the points are at the corners.
Apply gentle pressure in a circular motion with the pads of your three middle fingers. Gradually increase the pressure if needed.
In addition to alleviating headaches, rubbing here can soothe tired eyes and alleviate nausea.
Welcome Fragrance to Open Sinuses
This point is nestled very close to the nose, at its base, just off to the sides. It is well-known for its ability to open up the sinuses.
Try experimenting here with your fingertips by delicately pulling the skin towards your ears, or in a slightly upward direction.
The free flow of air can help reduce chronic headaches induce a calming effect by allowing you to deep breathe through your nose.
Union Valley to Move Qi
This point is located near the thumb and is a highly effective point when addressing any kind of pain.
To locate, put the thumb and first finger in a position where they are straight but touching each other. The fleshy mound between the two should be visible to the eye and easily located.
Apply steady, strong pressure with your opposite thumb, as you make tiny, circular motions.
Commanding Middle Point for Back Pain
This point is conveniently located at the back of the knee, in the center, right where it bends. Use your thumbs to press with moderate to strong pressure.
Circular motions or directly pressing this area can help bring relief to chronic lower backache and the pain associated with osteoarthritis.
Contact an acupuncturist today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about acupuncture and Oriental medicine.
About the Author: Vanessa Vogel Batt, L.Ac., MSTOM, studied at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, and practiced acupuncture and Oriental medicine in New York for several years. Vanessa enjoys traveling the world, and has published articles on acupuncture and Oriental medicine and related health topics for websites and publications in both the U.S. and abroad.