2 Basic Acupressure Techniques
Pressing Techniques: Position your finger directly on the acupressure point and direct the pressure firmly on the surface of the skin. Hold for about 30 seconds, then gradually release the pressure. Pressure should be applied gently at first and gradually increased until you feel a mild sensation. You may apply deep breathing techniques while holding pressure on the point until you feel a regular pulse or until the soreness at the point decreases, then gradually release the pressure. This is recommended with points on the mid-line of the body, such as the torso points and head points.
Rubbing Techniques: Position finger on the acupressure point and direct the pressure firmly on the surface of the skin. Instead of holding the pressure in one place, rub the acupressure point in a circular motion for about 30 seconds, then gradually release the pressure.
Always take a deep breath before the massage to ensure that your body and mind are relaxed. Take a deep breath again after finishing the self-massage.- These two methods can be used alone or combined.
- Repeat on the point that is symmetrical on the opposite side of the body. Some points along the spine are single point.
Firm pressure is the most fundamental technique. Use thumbs, fingers, palms, the side of the hand, or knuckles to apply steady, stationary pressure. To relax an area or relieve pain, apply pressure gradually and hold without any movement for several minutes at a time. You can use prolonged finger pressure directly on the point; gradual, steady, penetrating pressure for approximately three minutes is ideal. Each point will feel somewhat different when you press it; some points feel tense, while others are often sore or ache when pressed.
How much pressure do I need?
A general guideline to follow is that the pressure should be firm enough so that it hurts a little. The more developed the muscles are, the more pressure you should apply. If you feel extreme sensitivity or pain, gradually decrease the pressure until you find a balance between pain and pleasure. Do not continue to press a point that is excruciatingly painful. Usually, however, if you firmly hold the point long enough (up to 2 minutes using the middle finger with your index and ring fingers on either side as support), the pain will diminish.
Note that sometimes when you hold a point, you’ll feel pain in another part of your body. This phenomenon is called referred pain and indicates that those areas are related.
It’s important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, to help clear away toxic substances in our body.
Caution: If you have a serious illness, or life-threatening illness such as heart disease, or cancer, please consult with your physician before practicing Acupressure.
