Introduction
Acupressure is a kind of traditional Chinese medicine where pressure is applied to specific body points. Around 2000 points on the body connect to energy pathways, and life force energy flows from these points. When the life force energy is blocked, an individual may become physically ill. Acupuncture and acupressure are closely related. Acupuncture utilizes needles, whereas acupressure does not.
What Is Acupressure?
Acupressure is a traditional healing practice in which pressure is applied to certain places on the body to boost the body's natural healing processes and improve physical and emotional well-being. It is founded on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) ideas, which regard the body as a network of interconnected energy channels or meridians through which a vital energy or life force known as "Qi" flows. Acupressure is often performed by a professional practitioner who applies pressure to specific acupoints on the body with their fingers, thumbs, or other tools. Pressure is typically given in a circular or rhythmic manner, and it may be combined with light stretching or massage.
Acupressure has been used to treat a variety of medical and emotional disorders, such as pain, stress, anxiety, sleeplessness, and digestive issues. Some people use acupressure for self-care, doing simple techniques on themselves to alleviate minor symptoms or increase overall well-being. While the precise mechanisms of how acupressure works are unknown, it is thought to stimulate the body's natural healing processes by improving circulation, releasing tension, and promoting Qi flow through the body's energy channels. When conducted by a professional practitioner, acupressure is typically safe; but, like with any form of therapy, it may not be appropriate for everyone and should be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.
How Does Acupressure Work?
Acupressure therapists apply pressure to pressure points on the body's energy pathways with their fingers, palms, elbows, or feet or with special devices. Acupressure may also include stretching and acupressure massage, among other things. During an acupressure session, a person is made to lie entirely clothed on a soft massage table. The practitioner gently presses acupressure points on the body. A typical session lasts about an hour. For the best results, one may need several sessions.
What Are the Types of Acupressure?
The different types of acupressure are explained in detail below:
1) Shiatsu (Japanese Acupressure): Shiatsu (Japanese acupressure) massage was invented in Japan, and the Japanese government officially recognized it as a form of acupressure therapy in 1964. Shiatsu incorporates traditional techniques, such as applying pressure to various pressure points on the body in rhythmic patterns with the fingertips. Stretching and mental meditation exercises are also common in many forms of shiatsu to help flow energy through the body. Namikoshi shiatsu, hara shiatsu, and zen shiatsu are three subsets of shiatsu acupressure therapy that use slightly different techniques.
2) Jin Shin Jyutsu (Body Mind Acupressure): Jin Shin Jyutsu (body-mind acupressure) therapy focuses on 26 different energy points throughout the body. Jin Shin Jyutsu (body-mind acupressure) is an ancient traditional form of acupressure that has grown in popularity after being rediscovered by a Japanese healer in the early 1900s. These points are thought to be linked by energy pathways that can become blocked, causing physical problems and mental or spiritual disunity. A therapist who uses this therapy focuses on specific points with both hands to open up energy channels. Jin Shin Jyutsu (body-mind acupressure) treatments use gentle pressure because the medicine does not concentrate on the skeletal system or muscles and is more of a spiritual and religious form of acupressure treatment.
3) Auricular Acupressure: Auricular point acupressure (APA) is a treatment similar to acupuncture that may help with chronic low back pain management. APA is a type of acupressure in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that involves stimulating particular acupressure points on the ear without using needles. The World Health Organization (WHO) has since recognized auricular therapy as a type of micro acupuncture that can influence the whole body. Auricular acupressure can be utilized for many conditions, including pain relief, infectious diseases (common cold), relaxation, treatment of allergies, and regulation of endocrine system disorders like menopause (the period in a woman's life when the menstrual cycle usually stops between the ages of 45 and 50) diabetes, and treating long-term disease and functional disorders. It is also used to treat physical symptoms.
4) Tapas Acupressure Technique (TAT): Tapas acupressure technique is a complementary medicine therapy that pretends to release negative emotions and past stressful events. TAT can help with stress, anxiety (fear), trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and weight loss maintenance.
What Are the Benefits of Acupressure?
Positive acupressure results can be seen in one session or may require multiple sessions, depending on the severity of the concern; it varies from case to case. The benefits of acupressure are as follows:
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It relieves pain.
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It lowers high blood pressure.
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It helps in treating sports injuries.
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It relaxes muscles.
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It improves sleep patterns.
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It improves digestion.
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It increases the flow of energy.
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It improves mental health.
What Are the Side Effects of Acupressure?
No, there are no adverse effects to receiving acupressure treatment. Because the pressure points are being massaged, individuals may experience some stiffness initially, but this will subside independently. It is also recommended that individuals relax for a day before beginning such treatment so that their bodies can absorb the total capacity of the treatment. Acupuncture has few risks if performed by a competent, certified acupuncturist who uses sterile needles. Soreness, minor bleeding, or bruising where the needles were inserted are common side effects. Because single-use, disposable needles are now the norm, the risk of infection is low.
What Are the Precautions to Be Followed for Acupressure?
Acupressure is generally considered to be very safe. If one has cancer, heart disease, or another chronic condition, consult the doctor before attempting any therapy that involves moving joints and muscles, such as acupressure. Additionally, verify that the acupressure practitioner is licensed and certified. If any of the following conditions exist, deep tissue work, such as acupressure, should be avoided:
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If treatment is given in the nearby area of a cancerous tumor or if cancer has spread to the bones.
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If one has rheumatoid arthritis (the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body by mistake, causing painful swelling), a spinal injury, or a bone disease that physical manipulation could aggravate.
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If one suffers from varicose veins (twisted or enlarged veins).
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If one is expecting a child, specific points may cause contractions.
Conclusion
Acupressure is a traditional healing practice that includes applying pressure to certain places on the body in order to enhance physical and mental well-being. It is founded on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is usually provided by a skilled practitioner, however, it can also be done on one's own. Acupressure has been used to treat a variety of medical and emotional disorders, such as pain, stress, anxiety, sleeplessness, and digestive issues. While the precise mechanisms of how acupressure works are unknown, it is thought to stimulate the body's own healing processes by improving circulation, distributing tension, and promoting Qi flow through the body's energy channels. When applied by a qualified practitioner, acupressure is generally safe.
