Acupressure

In acupressure, firm pressure is applied to points along energy pathways in the body to restore natural energy. Acupressure is based on beliefs from traditional Chinese medicine that vital energy, qi (pronounced chee), travels in channels through the body. Acupressure is believed to increase and balance the energy flow.

Acupressure may be used to manage pain, headaches, stress and nausea.  People have also found that acupressure lessens fatigue and depression and improves sleep quality.

Is it safe for me?

If you are pregnant, avoid acupressure.

Plan for it

You can do acupressure yourself or you may also ask a caregiver to help you with acupressure. There may also be trained acupressure therapists in your community.

Practice doing it

There are several acupressure points around your body. There are three in the ear and one on the hand that you might like to try.

• Use your fingertips to apply gentle, firm pressure to each point
• Press and hold for 30 seconds to 3 minutes
• Breathe slowly and deeply through the nose
• Acupressure points are located on both left and right sides of the body
• Apply acupressure as often as you like; there is no limit

Acupressure points in the ear

• At the tip of the triangle at the top of the ear.
• At the bottom corner of the triangle and hidden from view.
• On the inside of the ear above the lobe.

Acupressure points in the hand

• In the middle of the soft, fleshy web between the thumb and forefinger.

Need help or have questions?

If you have questions about this resource or any medical condition, always talk to your healthcare professional.