How to Apply Acupressure
Acupressure points are often called by other names. Acupuncture points, pressure points and acupoints all refer to the same thing. Strongly linked to acupuncture, acupressure seeks to regulate the energies of the body by manipulating points on the physical body. Acupressure is used to treat stress, physical ailments and improve emotional well-being.
Things You'll Need:
Blunt object to apply pressure
Patience--acupressure effects improve over time
Map of the acupressure points
Apply Acupressure
1
Familiarize yourself with the 2 main methods for applying acupressure. They are pressing (called 'reinforcing') and reducing points.
2
Get comfortable. You can apply acupressure lying down or sitting up.
3
Identify the points you'd like to press. Use the Eclectic Energies Web site to find a list of pressure points (see Resources below). Click 'All Points' on the navigation bar of the home page for clear pictorials with comprehensive information about each point.
4
Use a blunt object to create pressure. Many practitioners use their fingers, pencil erasers or even fingernails.
5
Apply steady pressure. Recommended amounts of time range from less than half a second to 2 minutes. One to 2 minutes is considered the norm.
6
Reduce the point after you've finished reinforcing it. This is done by running the blunt object in a counter-clockwise direction for another 1 to 2 minutes.
Make Your Acupressure More Effective
1
Vary your routine. Change is good, so mix up the pressure points you treat, as well as the order in which they are treated and the length of time you apply pressure. This helps to bring the maximum health benefits to your body.
2
Pay attention. After working with a point, see what effects you feel before moving on. That way, you'll know when a specific point needs to be worked and when it can be left alone.
3
Study the points. In addition to physical well-being, acupressure points each affect different emotions or states of mind.
4
Read your face. Many of the points have a distinct effect on facial expression. To know whether acupressure is working, check the mirror for signs of its effectiveness.
5
Stay up-to-date about acupressure. Browse the latest articles online at the Acupressure Institute Web site (see Resources below).
Tips & Warnings
Self-treatment with acupressure is very inexpensive if you make use of things you have at home.
Most people are more familiar with reinforcing acupressure points, as opposed to the lesser known techniques for reducing points. Try to balance the 2 techniques for maximum effect.
Objects used for applying acupressure should be 3 to 4 mm thick for proper pressure.
Always repeat the points on each side of the body so you receive a balanced treatment.
Be cautious when spending excessive amounts of time reducing points if you are unwell or weakened by other physical limitations. Reinforcing points is a better option for you.
Severe physical distress symptoms (vomiting, bleeding, acute pain) cannot be appropriately addressed using acupressure. Seek emergency care.
Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary healthcare provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2031324_apply-acupressure.html
Acupressure points are often called by other names. Acupuncture points, pressure points and acupoints all refer to the same thing. Strongly linked to acupuncture, acupressure seeks to regulate the energies of the body by manipulating points on the physical body. Acupressure is used to treat stress, physical ailments and improve emotional well-being.
Things You'll Need:
Blunt object to apply pressure
Patience--acupressure effects improve over time
Map of the acupressure points
Apply Acupressure
1
Familiarize yourself with the 2 main methods for applying acupressure. They are pressing (called 'reinforcing') and reducing points.
2
Get comfortable. You can apply acupressure lying down or sitting up.
3
Identify the points you'd like to press. Use the Eclectic Energies Web site to find a list of pressure points (see Resources below). Click 'All Points' on the navigation bar of the home page for clear pictorials with comprehensive information about each point.
4
Use a blunt object to create pressure. Many practitioners use their fingers, pencil erasers or even fingernails.
5
Apply steady pressure. Recommended amounts of time range from less than half a second to 2 minutes. One to 2 minutes is considered the norm.
6
Reduce the point after you've finished reinforcing it. This is done by running the blunt object in a counter-clockwise direction for another 1 to 2 minutes.
Make Your Acupressure More Effective
1
Vary your routine. Change is good, so mix up the pressure points you treat, as well as the order in which they are treated and the length of time you apply pressure. This helps to bring the maximum health benefits to your body.
2
Pay attention. After working with a point, see what effects you feel before moving on. That way, you'll know when a specific point needs to be worked and when it can be left alone.
3
Study the points. In addition to physical well-being, acupressure points each affect different emotions or states of mind.
4
Read your face. Many of the points have a distinct effect on facial expression. To know whether acupressure is working, check the mirror for signs of its effectiveness.
5
Stay up-to-date about acupressure. Browse the latest articles online at the Acupressure Institute Web site (see Resources below).
Tips & Warnings
Self-treatment with acupressure is very inexpensive if you make use of things you have at home.
Most people are more familiar with reinforcing acupressure points, as opposed to the lesser known techniques for reducing points. Try to balance the 2 techniques for maximum effect.
Objects used for applying acupressure should be 3 to 4 mm thick for proper pressure.
Always repeat the points on each side of the body so you receive a balanced treatment.
Be cautious when spending excessive amounts of time reducing points if you are unwell or weakened by other physical limitations. Reinforcing points is a better option for you.
Severe physical distress symptoms (vomiting, bleeding, acute pain) cannot be appropriately addressed using acupressure. Seek emergency care.
Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary healthcare provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2031324_apply-acupressure.html
