Acupressure: Quick Points for Pain, Stress, and Better Sleep
Got a headache, tight neck, or trouble falling asleep? Acupressure is a hands-on way to ease those problems fast. It’s simple: press specific points on your body to reduce pain, calm your nervous system, and help digestion—no needles, no tools.
Top 5 easy points to try now
Here are practical points you can press today. Use firm steady pressure, breathe slowly, and hold for 30–90 seconds. Repeat on the other side when applicable.
LI4 (Hegu) — For headaches and jaw tension. Located between thumb and index finger. Press and squeeze toward the bone. Warning: avoid during pregnancy.
PC6 (Neiguan) — For nausea and anxiety. On the inner forearm, about two finger-widths from the wrist crease between the tendons. Gentle, steady pressure works well, especially on travel nausea.
GB20 (Fengchi) — For neck stiffness and headaches. At the base of the skull, in the hollows on either side of the spine. Press up and inward while tucking the chin slightly—great after long screen time.
LV3 (Tai Chong) — For stress and irritability. On the top of the foot, in the hollow between the big toe and second toe. Press firmly and breathe into the tension.
SP6 (Sanyinjiao) — For digestion and sleep. About four finger-widths above the inner ankle bone. Gentle pressure here can help menstrual cramps and slow the mind before bed.
How to do acupressure safely
Use your thumb, knuckle, or a rounded tool. Start light and increase pressure until you feel a dull ache, not sharp pain. Hold each point 30–90 seconds, or make slow small circles. Breathe slowly and relax the area.
Avoid points on broken skin, varicose veins, or directly on inflamed joints. Pregnant people should skip LI4 and check with a practitioner about other points. If a point causes sharp pain, stop and try a gentler touch or a nearby spot.
Acupressure can help in the moment, but it’s not a replacement for medical care. If pain is severe, sudden, or ongoing, see a doctor. For chronic issues, consider combining acupressure with other therapies—like gua sha for muscle tension, cupping for circulation, or a professional massage session.
Want to learn more techniques you can use at home? Try short daily sessions: 5–10 minutes of acupressure can lower stress and improve sleep over time. Keep a small notebook of what points help you most—everyone responds a little differently.
Ready to try? Start with one point, practice a few days, and build from there. Small, consistent actions often give the best results.
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