Acupressure

Acupressure is a means of stimulating Chi at specific points on the meridians using hand pressure and does not involve the use of needles. It is a component of TCM and shiatsu in particular. Acupressure treats the body as an energy system and works to relieve a person’s individual symptoms by identifying and releasing 'blocked', or 'congested' energy centres in the body.

Acupressure is believed to have developed in Asia over 5000 years ago and is considered to be the mother of acupuncture, in that it predates the use of needles to stimulate Chi. It has the same principles as acupuncture, but the pressure is applied directly to the known acupressure points mainly by using the hands, fingers, thumbs or knuckles.

Read more about: Chinese Medicine - A different paradigm

Main principles

The 12 Meridians of Traditional Chinese Medicine are the body's healing energy pathways for Chi. Acupressure is the application of pressure to these 12 main bi-lateral meridians, according to the principles of Oriental medicine to improve flow of Chi and restore balance. Acupressure charts and acupuncture charts show where the meridian lines are on the body. The acupressure points are where vital energy commonly gets blocked on the meridians, and where you can most effectively apply the pressure to release the resulting tension, numbness or pain. As healing energy flows through the meridians, it improves blood circulation and attempts to harmonise all functions of the organs of the body. Acupressure points have a high electrical conductivity at the surface of the skin, and thus conduct and channel healing energy most effectively. This is why the most potent healing energy work uses acupressure points.

Uses

Using the power and sensitivity of the hand, acupressure therapy is effective in the relief of stress-related ailments and is ideal for self-treatment and preventive health care for boosting the immune system. Acupressure releases tension, increases circulation, reduces pain, and develops spirituality and vibrant health. Self-care applications and pressure point formulas can be learned for specific conditions, such as travel sickness, morning sickness, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, chronic muscular pain, mental stress, addiction recovery, learning disorders, trauma and emotional imbalances.

Associations

The Complementary Medical Association
www.the-cma.org.uk

The International Institute for Complementary Therapists
www.myiict.com