Acupressure is an ancient healing art that is based on the concept of life energy which flows through “Meridians” in the body. In treatment, physical pressure is applied to trigger points with the aim of clearing blockages in these meridians. Pressure may be applied by hand, by elbow, or with various devices.
It stimulates the body’s natural self-curative abilities. When these points are triggered or pressed, the muscular tension is being released and promotes the circulation of blood and the body’s life healing process. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture employs needles, while acupressure uses the gentle but firm pressure of hands (and even feet).
History Behind Acupressure
According to The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine the origins of acupressure are as ancient as the instinctive impulse to hold your forehead or temples when you have a headache. Everyone at one time or another has used his or her hands spontaneously to hold tense or painful places on the body. The Chinese discovered more than 5,000 years ago that pressing certain points on the body relieved pain where it occurred and also benefited other parts of the body more remote from the pain and the pressure point. Gradually, they found other locations that not only alleviated pain but also influenced the functioning of certain internal organs.
There is a massive amount of scientific data that demonstrates why and how acupuncture is effective:- Relieves pain: Headaches, Backaches, Neck Pain, Insomnia, Colds and Flus, Knee Pain, Arthritis, Depression and etc…
- Balancing the Body.
- Maintaining good Health.
- Reduces tension and increases circulation.
- Enables the body to relax deeply.
- Strengthens resistance to disease and promotes wellness.
But acupressure, was being replaced or neglected after the Chinese developed more technological methods for stimulating points with needles and electricity. Acupressure, however, continues to be the most effective method for self-treatment of tension-related ailments and other issues related to muscular pain by using the power and sensitivity of the veins from the human body.
Foremost among the advantages of Acupressure’s healing touch is that it is safe to do on yourself and others – even if you’ve never done it before – so long as you follow the instructions and pay attention to the cautions. There are no side effects from drugs, because there are no drugs. And the only equipment needed is your own two hands. You can practice acupressure therapy anytime, anywhere.