wrist pressure massage

Practicing Self-Acupressure

Several different kinds of acupressure are currently practised, although the same ancient trigger points are used in all of them. Varying rhythms, pressures, and techniques create different styles of acupressure, just as different forms of music use the same notes but combine them in distinctive ways. Shiatsu, for instance, the most well-known style of acupressure, can be quite vigorous, with firm pressure applied to each point for only 3-5 seconds. Another kind of acupressure gently holds each point for a minute or more. Pressing with an intermittent, fast beat is stimulating; a slower pressure creates a deeply relaxing effect on the body.

Acupressure Massage Techniques

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. One minute of steady pressure (when applied gradually) calms and relaxes the nervous system, promoting greater healing. To stimulate the area, apply pressure for only four or five seconds.

How Acupressure Works

Acupressure points (also called potent points) are places on the skin that are especially sensitive to bioelectrical impulses in the body and conduct those impulses readily. Traditionally, Asian cultures conceived the points as special pathways that carried the human energy, which the Chinese call chi and the Japanese call ki. Western scientists have also mapped-out and improved the existence of this system of body points by using sensitive electrical devices.

Stimulating these points with pressure, needles or heat, triggers the release of endorphins, which are the neuro-chemicals that relieve pain. As a result, pain is blocked and the flow of blood and oxygen in the affected area is increased. This causes the muscles to relax and promotes healing.

Acupressures Considerations

1. Apply finger pressure in a slow, rhythmic manner to enable the layers of tissue and the internal organs to respond. Never press any area in an abrupt, forceful, or jarring way.
2. Use the abdominal points cautiously, especially if you are ill. Avoid the abdominal area entirely if you have a life-threatening disease, especially intestinal cancer, Tuberculosis, serious cardiac conditions and leukaemia. Avoid the abdominal area during pregnancy as well.
   Special care should be taken during pregnancy.
3. Lymph areas, such as the groin, the area of the throat just below the ears, and the outer breast near the armpits, are very sensitive. These areas should be touched only lightly and not pressed.
4. Do not work directly on a serious burn, an ulcerous condition or an infection: for these conditions, medical care alone is indicated
5. Do not work directly on a recently formed scar. During the first month after an injury or operation, do not apply pressure directly on the affected site. However, gentle continuous holding a few inches away from the periphery of the injury will stimulate the area and help it heal.
6. After an acupressure session, your body heat is lowered; thus your resistance to cold is also lower. Because the tensions have been released, your body’s vital energies are concentrating inward to maximize healing. Your body will be more vulnerable, so be sure to wear extra clothing and keep warm when you finish an acupressure routine.

Limitations of Acupressure