Stress and anxiety are inevitable in today’s time and age. Life in the fast lane leads to immense tension impacting our mental and physical health. Many times chronic anxiety and stress issues culminate into severe problems like depression, panic attacks, high blood pressure, suicidal thoughts and more. There are different ways to deal with stress. While some like taking a holiday, others prefer therapy. In today’s time, it is no surprise that people are even relying on anti-depressants and anti-anxiety pills. These medicines do not have a very good reputation and are said to cause more harm than good in the long run.
Dealing with stress does not have to be stressful. A simple way to relieve stress is acupressure. It is an ancient form of healing technique that was developed in China thousands of years ago. Acupressure uses fingers to apply pressure on specific points manipulating the flow of Qi (life energy). Massaging these points unblocks energy and facilitates better energy flow. Hence, it leads to healing of various health-related issues. It uses the same principle as acupuncture except without needles. For years, this technique has been used for treating illnesses and promoting healing and wellness. It is one of the most effective ways to relieve stress and anxiety and restore a relaxed state of mind. You can apply acupressure wherever you are. If you are stuck in traffic, writing an exam, or simply sitting at home, just a few minutes of acupressure can provide instant relief. These pressure points reduce stress and alleviate anxiety.
How to use Acupressure points to relieve stress
There are several massage points to relieve stress on our body that are easy to locate and access. When experiencing stress, all you need to do is find yourself a relaxing position and focus on your breathing. Then, press your finger on the acupressure points to relieve stress and slowly begin massaging it in a circular motion for a few minutes. There is no recommended time, but it should be done for some time until the point feels like its being stimulated. As for the pressure, again there is no defined amount of pressure that needs to be applied. However, it is important for you to discover the balance between what feels right and what feels painful. Also, pay close attention to your body, any changes or sensations could be a response to stimulation to these points.
Pressure points to relieve stress
1) Union Valley: Among many hand pressure points, this is quite an effective one to treat stress, anxiety, depression, headaches, and muscular tension. You can find this point by stretching all five fingers widely. It is located in the mound of flesh where the thumb and the index finger meet. Pressing this point stimulates the energy pathway running from hand to the head. It helps redirect the excess or block energy. Apply firm pressure with fingertips and keep taking deep breaths. You can keep switching hands while massaging the point for several minutes.
2) Shoulder Well: When experiencing stress, a lot of it is felt in the shoulders. Alleviating tension by stimulating the Shoulder Well is quite effective. This point can be discovered on the back of your shoulder, halfway between the base of the neck and tip of the shoulder. Use your index finger to massage this point for two to three minutes and you will instantly start feeling relieved. Concentrate on breathing and repeat if required. It helps relieve tension in nerves, pain in back, neck, and shoulder.
3) Inner Gate: These acupressure points on hands to relieve stress helps with acute stress and anxiety levels. It also eliminates the feeling of nausea and vomiting. It is located on your forearm; three fingers up your arm, starting from the wrist. Specialists advise massaging this point firmly with thumb for 3 to 4 minutes. There are several other benefits of applying acupressure on this point regularly. It helps in improving digestion and relieves tension from the heart.
4) Outer Gate: This point is located right opposite to the inner gate hand pressure points. Pressing this point helps relieve stress and improves the immune system and energy flow throughout the body.
5) The Spirit Gate: According to the reflexologists, this is the best stress relieving point in the body. This acupressure point is located at the crease of the outer wrist, right below the pinkie finger. It helps in dismissing stress, worry, depression, anxiety, insomnia and more. Applying pressure on this point for about two to three minutes works wonders and instantly calms the mind and helps in falling asleep.
6) Third Eye: This point located between the two eyebrows provides immense relief from stress, headaches, and migraine pain. You can activate the flow of energy through this point by simply lightly pressing and tapping this point for about 2 minutes with deep breathes. Once stimulated, the person experiences a sense of calm and clarity. It unclogs emotional stress and balances stress-causing hormones.
7) Heavenly Pillar: These acupressure points are located on the backside of the head, below the base of the skull. You can locate it a one-half inch below the back of the head. Applying mild pressure with fingers for about two to three minutes can alleviate stress. Reflexologists recommend it to be one of the best points to relieve stress. Also, it can help in dealing with skin disorders, insomnia, exhaustion and more.
8) Great Rushing point: It is a master acupressure point that helps to heal most of the ailments. Reflexologists use this point often to detect problems in their patients. It is found at the top of your feet, in a depression between the first and the second bone. It eases out irritability, relieves headaches, stress, allergies, foot cramps and more.
These acupressure points are great for relieving stress. Massaging them daily can help you deal with day-to-day stress and provide emotional stability. Remember, acupressure is an alternative medicine technique but not a replacement. If you are suffering from severe illness, a visit to your doctor is a must. Acupressure helps recuperate faster and promotes overall wellness. It has no side effects and can be practiced on your own, anywhere, anytime.
