Latest news with #acupressure
Health Line
4 days ago
- Health
- Health Line
Acupressure Points for Toothaches
Acupressure points like Gallbladder 21 (GB21) and Small intestine 18 (SI18) are believed to relieve toothache pain. Other points may help with facial pain or promote relaxation. Acupressure has been practiced for more than 2,000 years. Many people advocate its effectiveness in soothing muscle aches and pains. Some research suggests that applying pressure to acupressure points may also relieve tooth pain during dental procedures. Toothache pain requires treatment by a dentist. Untreated, specific underlying causes of tooth pain can get worse. But if you're looking for relief while waiting for your appointment or during a dental procedure, stimulating acupoints may help as a complementary therapy. Acupressure is a natural, holistic form of Chinese traditional medicine that involves applying pressure to a certain point on the body. The pressure signals the body to relieve tension, remedy blood flow issues, and reduce pain. It can be done by self-massage, by a professional, or by a friend. However, acupressure is not a substitute for dental care. Keep reading to learn how to perform acupressure and the specific points that may help relieve toothache pain. How do I do acupressure? Acupressure can be administered at home or in an acupressure therapy facility. If you choose your home, pick a quiet, non-stressful area of your living space to help you focus and maximize the benefits of acupressure. Get into a comfortable position. Breathe deeply and try to relax your muscles and limbs. Massage or rub each point with firm pressure. Repeat as often as you like. Make sure to stop if intense pain occurs. Trigger finger 4 (TF4) for toothaches The trigger finger 4 acupressure point, also known as Shenmen or 'Heavenly Gate,' may be beneficial for tooth pain, according to a 2022 study. It's located on the top of the ear in the middle of a depression. Small intestine 18 (SI18) for toothaches The Small intestine 18 acupressure point, also known as Quanliao, is widely used to relieve pain associated with: toothaches swollen gums tooth decay It's found perpendicular to the outside of your eye and the outside of your nose, under the cheekbone. It's typically called the cheekbone crevice. To find it, draw a line directly from the outer corner of your eye down to the hollow of your cheekbone. Gallbladder 21 (GB21) for facial pain The Gallbladder 21 point, also known as Jianjing, is often used for: facial pain neck pain headaches It's located at the top of your shoulders, one on each side. It's right in the middle of the end of your shoulder and the side of your neck. Practitioners recommend not using the Jianjing acupressure point if you are pregnant, as it may potentially be implicated in inducing labor. Large intestine 14 (LI4) for above-the-neck pain The Large intestine 14 point, also known as He Gu, is used for: headaches stress other pains above the neck You can find it between your thumb and index finger. You can find it by resting your thumb beside the second knuckle of your index finger. The apple (highest point) of the muscle is where LI4 is located. Chinese medicine practitioners recommend not using the He gu acupressure point if you are pregnant, as it may potentially be implicated in inducing labor. Stomach 6 (ST6) for mouth and tooth ailments Stomach 6, also known as Jiache, is typically used to relieve mouth and tooth ailments, particularly those that affect the jaw. This point is halfway between the corner of your mouth and the bottom of your earlobe. To find it, clench your teeth together naturally. It's located halfway between the corner of your mouth and the bottom of your earlobe. It's the muscle that flexes when you press your teeth together. Stomach 36 (ST36) for stress The Stomach 36 acupressure point, also known as Zusanli or Leg Three Miles, is typically stimulated to relieve: nausea tiredness stress It is located below your knee. If you place your hand on your kneecap, it's typically where your pinky is resting. You should apply pressure in a downward motion to the outside of your shin bone. Extra points on the head and neck 1 (EXHN1) for pain The EXHN1 acupressure points, also known as Sishencong, are believed to relieve head pain, including tension-type headaches. A 2023 experimental study suggests that acupressure at this point reduced pain during IANB injection in 5- to 10-year-olds and can be used along with conventional measures like topical anesthesia to reduce pain. It is a group of four points at the vertex of the head around Bai Hu (GV20), in front of, behind, and to either side of GV20. Extra points on the head and neck 3 (EXHN3) for relaxation The EXHN3 acupressure point, also known as Yintang or the Hall of Impression, is associated with mental stability and relaxation. A 2022 clinical trial in children undergoing a dental procedure suggests that stimulating this acupressure point before the procedure may lower heart rate, a potential indicator of anxiety. It is located in the center of the forehead between the eyebrows. When to contact a doctor Acupressure should not be used in place of a visit to a dentist or doctor. However, it can help provide temporary pain relief along with traditional treatments for toothaches, like pain relievers, until you can schedule a dentist or doctor's appointment. You should contact your doctor if: your pain is worsening or unbearable you have a fever you have swelling in your mouth, face, or neck you're experiencing difficulty swallowing or breathing you're bleeding from the mouth »FIND CARE: Find a dentist in your area today. Potential risks of acupressure Acupressure is generally viewed as safe. However, if you experience worsening pain while stimulating acupressure points, do not continue. Acupressure should not hurt. If you are in pain while performing acupressure, talk with a doctor. You should also talk with a doctor before performing acupressure if you are pregnant or have chronic health conditions. People who are pregnant should not stimulate Jianjing (GB21) or He gu (LI4), as they have the potential to induce labor.
Health Line
02-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Can Pressure Points Help Relieve Nausea?
Acupressure involves applying pressure to certain points of your body. Pressing on some of these points may help manage nausea by relaxing muscles and improving blood circulation. Acupressure is different from acupuncture. Rather than using needles, it involves using fingers to apply pressure to certain points of your body. Pressing on these points may help relax muscles and improve blood circulation. There are several pressure points, also called acupoints, that may help with nausea. You can reach some of these yourself. Other pressure points are harder to locate. For those, you'll want to see a trained massage therapist with acupressure experience. It is important to note that acupressure should not be a substitute for medical care. Persistent or severe nausea may require medical treatment. Read on to learn more about the acupressure points that may help relieve nausea. Tips for acupressure When trying acupressure at home, there are a few things to keep in mind: Use your thumb or index finger to massage the pressure points. You can also use more than one finger or the heel of your hand to press on these points. Use firm but gentle pressure. Use a circular motion when applying pressure to these points. Continue treatments for several days or until you begin to feel relief. Do not apply acupressure to open wounds or swollen or painful areas without discussing it with a medical professional. PC6 or P6 (Nei Guan) Pericardium 6 (PC6 or P6) is a pressure point located on the inner side of your wrist. It may help manage nausea and prevent vomiting. To focus on P6: Hold your hand up so that your palm is facing you. To find the right spot, place the first three fingers of your other hand across your wrist at the base of your palm. Place your thumb just below your three fingers. Gently press your thumb so you feel two large tendons. The P6 pressure point is located there, at the center of your lower wrist. Apply gentle pressure to this spot. Repeat on your other wrist. LI4 (He Gu) The large intestine 4 (LI4) point on your hand helps with nausea caused by headaches, pain, and digestive issues. To try it: Find the highest spot on the muscle between your thumb and index finger. This is the area where your thumb connects to the fingers. This area will bulge out slightly when you bring your thumb and finger together. The LI4 point is located about half an inch inward on the back of your hand. Apply pressure to this area. Repeat on your other hand. Avoid if pregnant Although more research is necessary to verify this, most practitioners agree that you shouldn't apply pressure to your LI4 point while you're pregnant. LIV3 or LV3 (Tai Chong) The LIV3 or LV3 (Tai Chong) pressure point on your foot is linked to your liver. A 2012 article suggests that acupuncture focusing on LV3 may reduce headaches, which can be a cause of nausea. While acupuncture is not the same as acupressure, it may be a pressure point you wish to try. To try this point: With your foot flat on the floor, place your finger in the gap between your big toe and the toe next to it. Slide your finger down about two finger widths onto your foot. The pressure point is on your foot in this spot. Apply pressure to this area. Repeat on your other foot. SP4 (Gongsun) This pressure point on the inside of your foot is connected to the spleen. It may help with nausea. To try the spleen 4 (SP4) point: Sit down, and pull one foot onto your knee so that the inside of the foot is facing you. Slide your hand from your big toe to the side of your foot. This point is where your foot begins to arch, just past the padded ball of your feet. You should feel a slight downward curve of the foot in the SP4 point. Apply pressure to this area. Repeat on your other foot. ST36 (Zu San Li) The stomach 36 (ST36) point is located on your lower leg, just below the kneecap. Massaging this point may relieve nausea and pain, as well as help with other health issues. To try it: Sit down, and place your hand on your kneecap. Press on the spot where your pinky finger is resting. The pressure point for nausea is located on the outside of your shin bone, just below the knee. Apply pressure in a downward motion. Repeat on your other knee. BL20 (Pi Shu) This pressure point on your back is linked to the digestive system. It may be best to see an acupressure practitioner to reach this point. To try the BL20 point, also known as UB20: Lie down on your stomach. The practitioner will locate your 11th thoracic spine (T11) on the middle of your back. This spine bone is at the bottom of your rib cage and is connected to the last ribs. The pressure points are on both sides of the spine, about two inches from the edges of the bone. KID21 (Youmen) The kidney 21 (KID21 or KD21) point is used to relieve nausea and vomiting. A 2020 study found that it could help alleviate nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. You'll need an acupressure practitioner to reach this point. To try it: Lie down on your back. The acupressure practitioner will find this point on your upper stomach area. KID21 points are located just below the breastbone on either side of the middle of your stomach. They're located about midway between your collarbone and belly button. The bottom line Acupressure may help manage nausea for some people. To relieve nausea at home, you can try applying pressure to these points. You can also visit a trained acupressure professional. You may need more than one visit to see results. Contact a doctor for advice if you frequently experience nausea. The doctor can help determine the underlying cause and advise on any treatments they recommend.
Health Line
24-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Pressure Points for Relieving Constipation
Acupressure, which involves applying physical pressure to points on the body to support digestion and induce bowel movements, can relieve constipation. It's common to feel constipated now and then. It can happen for many reasons, like dehydration or stress. Some medications and medical conditions can also cause constipation. Fortunately, it's possible to relieve constipation with natural remedies like acupressure. Acupressure involves applying physical pressure to various points on your body to support digestion and induce bowel movements. You can apply acupressure yourself or have it done by a trained professional. In either case, it's important to understand how it works and the potential side effects. How do pressure points work? Acupressure is a type of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It's a form of acupuncture, which is the practice of stimulating specific points in your body by inserting tiny needles into your skin. When pressure is used to activate these points, as in massage, it's known as acupressure. According to TCM, your body has a vital energy called qi. This energy flows through channels in your body called meridians. These meridians are thought to be connected to your tissues and organs. TCM practitioners maintain that a balanced Qi is necessary for good health. If your Qi is blocked or imbalanced, health issues can develop. This includes ailments such as: pain discomfort constipation Therapies like acupressure are used to balance qi. In acupressure, a practitioner uses their fingers or hands to apply physical pressure on specific points along your body's meridians. This is said to trigger a response that promotes healing and relief. There are more than 2,000 pressure points in the body. The specific points used in acupressure depend on your ailment. How do I use acupressure to relieve constipation? You can use acupressure for constipation by stimulating the following pressure points. According to TCM, these points are linked to various organs involved in constipation. San Jiao 6: Branching Ditch San Jiao 6 (SJ6) is commonly used for constipation. According to Peirano, this point stimulates the lower jiao, which includes the large and small intestines, kidneys, and bladder. To use this point for acupressure: Find SJ6, three finger-widths away from your wrist crease on the outer side of your arm. Press on the point with your opposite thumb or index finger. Apply circular pressure for 1 to 3 minutes. Repeat on your other arm. Stomach 25: Celestial Pivot Stomach 25 (ST25) is used to balance your digestive system. It can help both constipation and diarrhea, says Peirano. To use this point for acupressure: Locate ST25, two finger-widths to the right of your belly button. Press on the point with your thumb or index finger. Apply circular pressure for 1 to 3 minutes. Repeat on the left side. Spleen 15: Great Horizontal Spleen 15 (SP15) is located near ST25. It's used to stimulate peristalsis and enhance the effects of ST25. To use this point for acupressure: Find SP15, four finger-widths to the right of your belly button. Press on the point with your thumb or index finger. Apply circular pressure for 1 to 3 minutes. Repeat on the left side. Liver 3: Great Surge If stress could be the underlying cause of your constipation symptoms, Peirano recommends using Liver 3 (LV3) in your feet. This pressure point for constipation is said to regulate liver qi and relieve stress. To use this point for acupressure: Locate the soft skin between your big toe and second toe. Press on the point with your thumb or index finger. Apply circular pressure for 1 to 3 minutes. Repeat on your other foot. Large Intestine 4: Joining Valley Like LV3, Large Intestine 4 (LI4) is used for stress. This may help with constipation if your symptoms could be due to emotional stress. To use this point for acupressure: Find the soft skin between your thumb and index finger on the top of your hand. Press on the point with your opposite thumb or index finger. Apply circular pressure and continue for 1 to 3 minutes. Repeat on your other hand. Kidney 6: Shining Sea Kidney 6 (KI6) is an acupressure point on the foot used to induce bowel movements. According to TCM, it can ease constipation by promoting fluid production. To use this point for acupressure: Find the KI6 point below your inner ankle bone. Press on the point with your thumb or index finger. Apply circular pressure for 1 to 3 minutes. Repeat on your other foot. Can acupressure relieve symptoms of constipation? Acupressure can help relieve some symptoms of constipation. According to licensed acupuncturist Dr. Kim Peirano, DACM, LAc, acupressure promotes peristalsis, the movement of your intestinal muscles. This helps move stool through your digestive system. The practice also activates the vagus nerve, which is involved in healthy digestive function. The vagus nerve sends signals between your brain and the digestive system. Additionally, according to a 2019 study, acupressure increases endorphins. This relaxes muscles and reduces stress, which is helpful if your constipation symptoms are due to stress. What are the potential downsides of acupressure? Acupressure is generally considered safe, but it may not be for everyone. Use caution if you're pregnant. Some pressure points can induce labor. To reduce the risk of complications, consult a trained acupressure professional. You should also avoid acupressure if you have: lung, kidney, or heart disease a pacemaker inflamed or injured skin Additionally, the practice has potential side effects, including: bruising soreness lightheadedness Avoid using hard, deep pressure to help prevent these side effects. What are some other ways to prevent and relieve constipation? You can try several other strategies to prevent and relieve constipation. In addition to acupressure, you might try the following: Eat high fiber foods. Fiber softens and bulks up your stools, making them easier to pass. High fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Stay hydrated. Drinking extra fluids will also soften your stools. It's important to stay hydrated as you eat more fiber. Stay active. Routine exercise can promote regular bowel movements. Try aerobic exercise or yoga to get things moving. Take magnesium citrate. Magnesium citrate is a natural remedy for constipation. Limit your dosage to 350 mg daily for females or 400 mg for males, as taking higher dosages can potentially cause kidney problems.s Manage stress. Stress can cause or worsen constipation. Focusing on stress relief can naturally relieve your symptoms. Train your bowels. It can be helpful if you're able to have a bowel movement at the same time every day. You should also pass stool as soon as you feel the urge. Take an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment. OTC medications like laxatives, stool softeners, or fiber supplements may also help. Check with your doctor before taking any of these treatments. Change your medications. Some medications may worsen constipation. Talk with a doctor about changing the dose or taking a different medication. When to seek medical care for constipation Contact a healthcare professional if your constipation doesn't improve with home remedies. You should also get medical help if you have constipation with: persistent abdominal pain bloody stools painful bowel movements vomiting fever lower back pain unexplained weight loss difficulty passing gas sudden changes in your bowel movements The takeaway Acupressure is a natural remedy for constipation. According to practitioners, it triggers bowel movements by promoting peristalsis and increases gastric juices. The practice is also said to relieve stress, a common cause of constipation. You can perform acupressure on yourself at home. Avoid applying hard pressure, as this can cause bruising and soreness.
CNET
07-06-2025
- Health
- CNET
Struggling With Anxiety Symptoms? Try These 8 Pressure Points for Relief
Anyone can experience anxiety symptoms -- an upset stomach, trouble breathing or a racing heart -- myself included. Over the years, I've tried many techniques and products to ground myself and reduce anxiety, and I've had varying degrees of success. But sometimes, you just need instant relief. One method I find helpful is using acupressure to stimulate pressure points that naturally reduce anxiety symptoms. Though it doesn't treat anxiety, you may feel physical symptoms lessen by using specific pressure points. "Acupressure is an incredibly effective and accessible tool for managing anxiety, because it works on both an energetic and physiological level," said Dr. Jessica Sharratt, founder of Heal Los Angeles, a holistic therapy practice. "It can be used in real time, wherever you are, without needing to schedule an appointment." How does acupressure work for anxiety? According to the American Psychological Association, anxiety is a common mental health condition that's defined as having fear or worry about the future. It's different from the normal stress response. It's a future-oriented, long-lasting response to stimuli that isn't a threat. Anxiety activates the autonomic nervous system. The two parts of our autonomic nervous system, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, work in balance. The sympathetic nervous system is our "fight-or-flight" response that is supposed to keep us safe from danger. When the sympathetic nervous system is triggered, our heart rates increase, pupils enlarge and digestion slows, all to help us act quickly in dangerous situations. However, the sympathetic nervous system can't always distinguish between real and perceived danger. Anxiety disorders can cause the sympathetic nervous system to be overactive or chronically activated. When you feel anxious, adrenaline is released and your heart rate and blood pressure jump up. Those actions contribute to the uncomfortable physical symptoms we associate with anxiety. "Acupressure can actually help with anxiety symptoms because it works on the nervous system by stimulating specific points on the body that are associated with stress regulation mechanisms," said Erik Larson, a board certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental heath and owner of Larson Mental Health. The parasympathetic nervous system is the other side of the process; it restores you to a balanced state. It essentially acts like a break to the fight-or-flight instinct, what experts call the "rest and digest" response. Acupressure stimulates pressure points on the body, focusing on kick-starting the parasympathetic nervous system to calm us. This type of massage can temporarily relieve anxiety symptoms by triggering the release of endorphins and improving blood flow, which relaxes the muscles. Maskot/Getty Images 8 pressure points to reduce anxiety Larson said acupressure is most effective when combined with deep breathing and other relaxation techniques. You might find that certain points bring more relief than others. Heavenly Gate point One of the easiest pressure points to access is the heavenly gate point; it's also one of the most well-known pressure points. It's located in the upper shell or hollow part of the ear. Apply gentle pinch pressure and move your finger in a circular motion for two minutes. You might have to use a mirror the first time to locate it. solidcolours/Getty Images Hegu point The Hegu point is located on the webbing section of your hand between the thumb and index finger. Larson explained that it can help reduce overall stress and anxiety. You'll want to press hard enough to feel pressure but you don't want pain. Apply pinch pressure for about two to five minutes. Shou San Li point The Shou San Li pressure point is found on the outer elbow. To access it, you simply place two fingers below your outer elbow while it's bent 90 degrees. Experts say it helps ease general anxiety, neck tightness and intestinal distress. Chest center point A pressure point that Sharratt recommended for emotional grounding and calming the nervous system is Ren 17, also known as chest center or Tan Zhong. It's located at the center of the sternum, level with the fourth intercostal space. For men, it's roughly the space between the nipples. Apply gentle pressure with small circular motions for three to four minutes. Neiguan point According to Sharratt, Pericardium 6 or Neiguan point is another pressure point that will calm the nervous system. There are a few locations in the wrist, although Pericardium 6 is located in the center between the two large tendons. To find it, hold your hand palm side up and place three fingers on the wrist, starting at the base of the palm. Then, put your thumb just below the third finger, and you'll feel the two large tendons. Apply gentle pressure. Larson said this point is particularly helpful for nausea that often accompanies anxiety attacks. MementoJpeg/Getty Images Hall of Impression point Also known as Yin Tang or the third eye, the Hall of Impression pressure point is located between the eyebrows. To access it, start by sitting comfortably and closing your eyes. Then, touch the spot with either your index finger or thumb. You should take slow, deep breaths as you apply gentle pressure in a circular motion. It's best to do this for five to 10 minutes to see your stress and anxiety symptoms ease. Yongquan point The Yongquan point, also known as Kidney 1, is located on the sole of the foot. You can find this point by locating the depression formed when you curl your toes toward the sole of your foot. It's just under the ball of your foot. This point promotes relaxation and stress reduction. Shen Men point The Shen Men point is one of my favorites because it's so easy to access and feels very relaxing. Shen Men, also known as the spirit gate, is located on the pinky side of your wrist, just below the palm. It may also help with motion sickness and insomnia. There is some research behind acupressure The research behind this topic is still developing but some studies support that it works. However, it's worth noting that most studies available are limited to stressful situations rather than general anxiety. Also, the sample sizes have been small. This doesn't discount the results but remembering their context is always important. For example, there have been a few reviews that have investigated using acupressure for anxiety before medical procedures and treatments. A 2018 study found that using acupressure techniques reduced anxiety and stress in those going through fertility treatment. A 2024 review of research revealed that acupressure decreased anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to those who did not use acupressure therapy. The studies are small, and it's difficult to parse out the placebo effect of pressure points for anxiety. More research is needed to truly understand how acupressure can ease symptoms. Unlike other trends and techniques out there, acupressure is a risk-free calming technique you can try if your anxiety symptoms are ruling your life. Studies haven't found any adverse effects from acupressure. Home remedies like acupressure can help you reduce your anxiety symptoms in the moment. However, it doesn't do anything for the root cause of the feelings. It's not intended to be a replacement for traditional therapies or medications. It's simply a tool that can help you find relief temporarily.
CNET
29-05-2025
- General
- CNET
8 Beneficial Pressure Points on the Body That May Reduce Your Anxiety
We've all experienced anxiety symptoms like an upset stomach, trouble breathing and a racing heart. Myself included. Over the years, I've tried many techniques to ground myself and reduce anxiety when my mind tries to get the best of me, so I know all too well that some things don't work when you need them to or when you're looking for instant relief. One method I came across that I find helpful is using acupressure to stimulate pressure points that naturally reduce anxiety symptoms. Though it doesn't treat anxiety, you may feel physical symptoms lessen by using specific pressure points. "Acupressure is an incredibly effective and accessible tool for managing anxiety because it works on both an energetic and physiological level," said Jessica Sharratt, founder of Heal East-West Los Angeles, a holistic therapy practice. "It can be used in real time, wherever you are, without needing to schedule an appointment." How does acupressure work for anxiety? According to the American Psychological Association, anxiety is a common mental health condition that's defined as having fear or worry about the future. It's different from the normal stress response. It's a future-oriented, long-lasting response to stimuli that isn't a threat. Anxiety activates the autonomic nervous system. The two parts of our autonomic nervous system, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, work in balance. The sympathetic nervous system is our "fight-or-flight" response that is supposed to keep us safe from danger. When the sympathetic nervous system is triggered, our heart rates increase, pupils enlarge and digestion slows, all to help us act quickly in dangerous situations. However, the sympathetic nervous system can't always distinguish between real and perceived danger. Anxiety disorders can cause the sympathetic nervous system to be overactive or chronically activated. When you feel anxious, adrenaline is released and your heart rate and blood pressure jump up. Those actions contribute to the uncomfortable physical symptoms we associate with anxiety. "Acupressure can actually help with anxiety symptoms because it works on the nervous system by stimulating specific points on the body that are associated with stress regulation mechanisms," said Erik Larson, a board certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental heath and owner of Larson Mental Health. The parasympathetic nervous system is the other side of the process; it restores you to a balanced state. It essentially acts like a break to the fight-or-flight instinct, what experts call the "rest and digest" response. Acupressure stimulates pressure points on the body, focusing on kick-starting the parasympathetic nervous system to calm us. This type of massage can temporarily relieve anxiety symptoms by triggering the release of endorphins and improving blood flow, which relaxes the muscles. Maskot/Getty Images 8 pressure points to reduce anxiety Larson said acupressure is most effective when combined with deep breathing and other relaxation techniques. You might find that certain points bring more relief than others. Heavenly Gate point One of the easiest pressure points to access is the heavenly gate point; it's also one of the most well-known pressure points. It's located in the upper shell or hollow part of the ear. Apply gentle pinch pressure and move your finger in a circular motion for two minutes. You might have to use a mirror the first time to locate it. solidcolours/Getty Images Hegu point The Hegu point is located on the webbing section of your hand between the thumb and index finger. Larson explained that it can help reduce overall stress and anxiety. You'll want to press hard enough to feel pressure but you don't want pain. Apply pinch pressure for about two to five minutes. Shou San Li point The Shou San Li pressure point is found on the outer elbow. To access it, you simply place two fingers below your outer elbow while it's bent 90 degrees. Experts say it helps ease general anxiety, neck tightness and intestinal distress. Chest center point A pressure point that Sharratt recommended for emotional grounding and calming the nervous system is Ren 17, also known as chest center or Tan Zhong. It's located at the center of the sternum, level with the fourth intercostal space. For men, it's roughly the space between the nipples. Apply gentle pressure with small circular motions for three to four minutes. Neiguan point According to Sharratt, Pericardium 6 or Neiguan point is another pressure point that will calm the nervous system. There are a few locations in the wrist, although Pericardium 6 is located in the center between the two large tendons. To find it, hold your hand palm side up and place three fingers on the wrist, starting at the base of the palm. Then, put your thumb just below the third finger, and you'll feel the two large tendons. Apply gentle pressure. Larson said this point is particularly helpful for nausea that often accompanies anxiety attacks. MementoJpeg/Getty Images Hall of Impression point Also known as Yin Tang or the third eye, the Hall of Impression pressure point is located between the eyebrows. To access it, start by sitting comfortably and closing your eyes. Then, touch the spot with either your index finger or thumb. You should take slow, deep breaths as you apply gentle pressure in a circular motion. It's best to do this for five to 10 minutes to see your stress and anxiety symptoms ease. Yongquan point The Yongquan point, also known as Kidney 1, is located on the sole of the foot. You can find this point by locating the depression formed when you curl your toes toward the sole of your foot. It's just under the ball of your foot. This point promotes relaxation and stress reduction. Shen Men point The Shen Men point is one of my favorites because it's so easy to access and feels very relaxing. Shen Men, also known as the spirit gate, is located on the pinky side of your wrist, just below the palm. It may also help with motion sickness and insomnia. There is some research behind acupressure The research behind this topic is still developing but some studies support that it works. However, it's worth noting that most studies available are limited to stressful situations rather than general anxiety. Also, the sample sizes have been small. This doesn't discount the results but remembering their context is always important. For example, there have been a few reviews that have investigated using acupressure for anxiety before medical procedures and treatments. A 2018 study found that using acupressure techniques reduced anxiety and stress in those going through fertility treatment. A 2024 review of research revealed that acupressure decreased anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to those who did not use acupressure therapy. The studies are small, and it's difficult to parse out the placebo effect of pressure points for anxiety. More research is needed to truly understand how acupressure can ease symptoms. Unlike other trends and techniques out there, acupressure is a risk-free calming technique you can try if your anxiety symptoms are ruling your life. Studies haven't found any adverse effects from acupressure. Home remedies like acupressure can help you reduce your anxiety symptoms in the moment. However, it doesn't do anything for the root cause of the feelings. It's not intended to be a replacement for traditional therapies or medications. It's simply a tool that can help you find relief temporarily.
