Acupressure is a wonderful tool that can assist the body in its own natural ability to heal. It's very simple and can be used by anyone to alleviate wide range of medical conditions. It shares the same points, known as acupoints, with acupuncture, but instead of needles, uses gentle yet deep finger pressure.
Acupressure is a part of a system of medicine referred to as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and has been used for over five thousand years.
Although most prevalently used in Asian countries, the earliest archaeological evidence of acupressure use wasn't found in Asia, but in Europe. Otzi, a 5300-year-old mummy found in an alpine glacier in 1991, had tattoos on his body that correspond to acu-points.
According to traditional Chinese Medicine, energy or qi, sort of like a life force of all living things, runs through the human body along pathways called meridians. Blocked or diminished qi can result in various health problems. Acupressure works by stimulating acu-points located on meridians to balance and unblock the qi energy flow.
Many people believe that acupressure is more or less limited to pain management. It's much more than that. It can treat a variety of physical and mental maladies. These include anxiety, insomnia, allergies, asthma, fibromyalgia, digestive problems, skin problems, menopause problems, tinnitus, depression, addictions, and hypertension just to name a few.
It is a noninvasive technique. Pressure is applied using fingers, hands, or elbows. Acupoints are rich in blood and quite sensitive to pressure.
Acupressure is very safe, with very few possible side effects. It's usually used to compliment the western medicine not replace it. If you're sick, see a doctor. If you have a heart disease or if pressure points are located under a mole, abrasion or cut, you should not use it. Pregnant women should familiarize themselves with maternity acupressure.