Imagine melting a headache away with your fingertips or easing anxiety by pressing a spot on your wrist — no needles, no pills, just a little pressure and some ancient wisdom. That’s the promise of acupressure, a centuries-old healing practice that’s having a serious modern moment. And no, you don’t need to fly to a retreat in Bali to try it.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, acupressure works by stimulating specific points on the body, often the same ones used in acupuncture, but without the scary-looking needles. It is said to be based on the idea that the body has vital energy (or “qi”) flowing through pathways called meridians. When that flow gets blocked, you feel off physically or emotionally and applying pressure to certain spots can help restore balance, adds the above source.
Acupressure can be used to relieve stress without the need for a professional. According to Hackensack Meridian Health, to accomplish this, pressure is applied to specific acupoints, such as the eyebrows, thumb and index finger, neck and shoulder area, head, and big toe. These pressure points are said to help reduce stress and promote relaxation. The process can be done using a massage tool or a tennis ball, and can be done on the spot or between the toes.
WebMD claims that acupressure has been shown to improve various health issues, including nausea, cancer, pain, arthritis, depression, and anxiety. Studies suggest that wrist acupressure can prevent and treat nausea and vomiting after surgery, spinal anaesthesia, chemotherapy, motion sickness, and pregnancy. It is also believed to reduce stress, improve energy levels, relieve pain, and lessen symptoms of cancer or its treatments.
Some studies suggest that acupressure releases endorphins and promotes anti-inflammatory effects, helping with certain types of arthritis.
Of course, it’s not magic, and it won’t replace medical treatment, but as a self-care add-on? Acupressure is low-risk, soothing, and kind of empowering. Plus, it feels good to take healing into your own hands — literally. So the next time your body’s whispering for a break, maybe skip the scroll and give your pressure points some love instead.
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