Effective Acupressure for Neck Stiffness Relief While Sitting at Your Desk

Neck stiffness is a common issue, especially for those who spend long hours at a desk. Fortunately, acupressure can provide quick, effective relief. We consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapist, who shared her expertise on acupressure points specifically for neck stiffness. You can learn more about her here. Ms. Mai recommends five acupressure points you can stimulate while seated to relieve neck tension quickly. For a deeper understanding of acupressure techniques, check out our comprehensive guide to acupressure.

How Acupressure Eases Neck Stiffness

Acupressure is an ancient TCM practice that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to release energy blockages and improve circulation. By stimulating these points, you can reduce tension, ease stiffness, and help alleviate pain. When applied consistently, acupressure can support neck mobility and provide lasting relief from common desk-related discomforts.

Here are five acupressure points Ms. Mai recommends to relieve neck stiffness without leaving your chair.

1. BL-10 (Tianzhu) – Heavenly Pillar

Located at the base of the skull, on either side of the spine, BL-10 is a powerful point for easing neck tension.

• How to locate: Place your thumbs on the back of your head, just below the skull. Move slightly outward until you feel two slight depressions.
• How to apply pressure: Use your thumbs to press gently on both points, holding the pressure for about 30 seconds. Take deep breaths to enhance relaxation.
• Benefits: Stimulating BL-10 can help relieve neck stiffness, tension headaches, and eye strain.

2. GB-20 (Fengchi) – Wind Pool

One of the most well-known points for neck relief, GB-20 is located just below the base of the skull, about an inch to either side of the spine.

• How to locate: Feel for two hollow areas just below your skull and slightly toward the sides of your neck.
• How to apply pressure: Using your thumbs, apply firm pressure to each point for 1–2 minutes. Breathe deeply, as this can help release tension faster.
• Benefits: GB-20 is effective for alleviating neck stiffness, headache, dizziness, and even fatigue caused by poor posture.

3. GB-12 (Wangu) – Completion Bone

GB-12 is situated behind the ear, in the groove where the skull meets the neck muscles.

• How to locate: Place your fingers behind the earlobe, feeling for a soft depression in the groove behind the mastoid bone.
• How to apply pressure: Press gently using your thumb or index finger, maintaining the pressure for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Benefits: GB-12 can reduce neck stiffness, relieve jaw tension, and soothe stress, providing a relaxing effect for those experiencing muscle tightness.

4. GB-21 (Jianjing) – Shoulder Well

The GB-21 point is located at the top of the shoulders, roughly halfway between the base of your neck and your shoulder joint.

• How to locate: Feel for the highest point of your shoulder muscle with your fingertips.
• How to apply pressure: Use your thumb and fingers to squeeze this spot firmly for 1 minute, alternating between each shoulder. Avoid excessive pressure if you are pregnant.
• Benefits: Stimulating GB-21 can relieve shoulder and neck tension, reduce stress, and release upper back tightness—ideal after a long day of desk work.

5. BL-9 (Yuzhen) – Jade Pillow

BL-9 lies slightly above the base of the neck, along the back of the head, just within the hairline.

• How to locate: Move your fingers up from the base of your neck, just above where BL-10 is located, until you feel a slight indentation within the hairline.
• How to apply pressure: Apply gentle, circular pressure for 30 seconds to 1 minute, using your index and middle fingers.
• Benefits: BL-9 can help alleviate neck stiffness, headaches, and mental tension, making it perfect for releasing accumulated stress.

Tips for Practicing Acupressure for Neck Stiffness

When using acupressure for neck stiffness relief, keep these tips in mind:

• Stay consistent: Repeat the technique daily to experience ongoing benefits.
• Focus on breathing: Deep, slow breaths enhance relaxation and promote energy flow.
• Use moderate pressure: Avoid excessive pressure to prevent discomfort or bruising.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking water after acupressure helps flush out toxins and supports overall relaxation.

Acupressure can be a simple yet effective solution for managing neck discomfort during a busy day at the desk. With these points, relief from stiffness can be as close as your fingertips, letting you maintain comfort and productivity in your daily routine.

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