Acupressure Massage

If you're interested in the positive effects of acupuncture (see my previous post on acupuncture) but aren't into needles, listen up because acupressure massage might be for you! And even if needles aren't an issue for you but you enjoy the feeling of bodywork such as massage, you might be interested in acupressure.

Acupressure (sometimes called acupressure massage) is an ancient Chinese technique which involves applying pressure to acupoints - points on the skin that lie along energy meridians through which qi flows. If you're interested in knowing a little more about qi and energy meridians, see my previous post here. When qi is not flowing ideally, physical and emotional discomfort or illness can occur. Acupressure is a way of repairing and restoring proper flow of qi.

There are a wide number of studies that have shown that acupressure is beneficial to people in a number of different ways. Acupressure has been shown to reduce menstrual cramping and pain, reduce nausea caused by chemotherapy, improve insomnia symptoms, and reduce chronic headache pain.^[1] It is also "believed that acupressure can reduce your blood pressure, regulate your menstrual cycle, lessen the pain of labor, treat mental anxiety, treat stomach problems like indigestion and nausea, relieve headaches and migraines, eliminate pain in the neck, shoulders and back, help with insomnia, enhance your spirituality, improve your mental aptitude and increase your overall energy levels as well as treat other disorders and ailments."^[2]

So that's all the good news about the benefits. But when it comes down to it, acupressure feels great! I experienced a couple of sessions a little while ago and I was surprised about how good the acupressure felt. It was absolutely relaxing! As with other bodywork therapies, the style of your practitioner can make a big difference so you might want to shop around. A good practitioner will teach you how to work on your own acupressure points (at least one or two that are most useful to you and your situation) if you ask them to. Sometimes acupressure massage is covered under some insurance plans so check yours out!

Some people believe the benefits of acupressure come from the movement of qi it can create and some believe the benefits come from the increased blood flow and relaxation effects. Whatever the source of the benefits, acupressure is good for you and feels great!

[1] Acupressure News and Reviews. The Healthy Fellow. Accessed December 7, 2010 from http://www.healthyfellow.com/491/acupressure-news-and-reviews/
[2] Dana George. Benefits of Acupressure. Accessed December 8, 2010 from http://www.ehow.com/about_4612730_benefits-of-acupressure.html