Acupressure uses the same meridian points as acupuncture to stimulate healing. This form of Chinese massage has influenced various other styles of Oriental massage like shiatsu and Thai massage. It is a effective technique used in Traditional Chinese Medicine that can easily be done at home.
Most of us have heard of acupunture, but many don't know the Chinese massage technique that came before it. Acupunture is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat a number of ailments. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC), there are 12 meridians that run through the body. These meridians are like pathways that carry energy called qi (chi) through the body. Each meridian is named for an organ that it runs through. If a meridian is blocked, qi can't flow through it correctly and this causes illness. Acupuncture works to unblock blocked meridians so that qi can flow though them freely. Other styles of Oriental massage also use the theory of meridians and blocked qi in their techniques.
Before needles were used to unblock the qi in the meridians, people were using finger pressure. This method of healing has a long tradition in Asian cultures. It is practiced in China, Japan and Korea. During the time I spent in China and Korea, I saw it practiced by everyday people to treat everything from headaches to nausea.
Many massage therapists use these principles in their massage practices. These points are often taught for self healing. Because the practice is relatively safe, it's good to learn how to use it on yourself and others. Just follow the proper precautions. For example, some points shouldn't be used if you're pregnant.
If the needles used in acupuncture are too much for you to handle, you might want to consider seeing a good acupressurist. It can be used to treat a variety of problems. Here is a list of a few:
headaches
nuasea
eye strain
indigestion
anxiety
arthitis
sinus problems
back pain
neck pain
menstrual cramps
ulcer pain
constipation
There are a host of other conditions that it treats.
When doing this therapy on yourself be sure to apply pressure to the point slowly. Be careful when working any points in the abdominal region. Avoid areas where the skin is damaged. If your pregnant see a professional acupressurist before using any acupressure on yourself.
Here are some acupressure points you can use for common illnesses.
Congestion
The points used to ease a stuffy nose are located on the face at the outer edge of the nose by the nostrils. Place a finger on either side of you nose right at the base near the edge of each nostril.
Fatigue
There is an acupressure point in the center of the palm of your hand that will help boost your energy when you're feeling most tired. Press the direct center of the palm of both hands several times for a few seconds.
Headaches
Headaches make it difficult for you to do much of anything. When I lived in Korea a friend thought me to squeeze the web between my index finger and thumb to relieve headache pain.
Digestive problems
When you feel indigestion or nausea coming on it's best to head it off before it hits you full force. Press just above your belly button to relieve these digestive problems.
