P. Sze 
Acupressure Points to Calm Your Nervous System Before Presentations
Feeling anxious before a big presentation is natural, but it can be overwhelming and impact your performance. If you’re looking for natural ways to calm your nerves and enhance focus, acupressure offers a powerful solution. We consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapist from Japan, to learn about the most effective acupressure points for calming the nervous system before a presentation. You can read more about Ms. Mai here.
By applying pressure to specific acupoints, you can balance the body’s energy flow, reduce anxiety, and promote a state of calm. Below, we’ll explore five acupressure points that are especially helpful for nervous system calming acupressure before you step in front of an audience.
Acupressure Point 1: Shen Men (HT-7)
Shen Men, or Heart 7 (HT-7), is one of the most important acupressure points to alleviate anxiety and calm the mind. Located on the wrist, on the pinky side of the crease where your hand meets your forearm, it is widely known as the “Spirit Gate.”
By applying gentle pressure to this point, you can help soothe your nervous system, calm racing thoughts, and improve emotional stability. This acupoint is particularly effective if you’re feeling overwhelmed, as it encourages relaxation and helps you regain focus.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Find the point on the outer edge of your wrist crease.
- Use your thumb to press down for 1-2 minutes on each wrist.
- Apply steady but gentle pressure, while taking deep breaths to help relax.
Acupressure Point 2: Nei Guan (PC-6)
Nei Guan, also known as Pericardium 6 (PC-6), is located about three finger-widths below the wrist, between the two tendons in the center of your inner arm. This acupressure point is famous for reducing stress and anxiety while promoting emotional calmness.
Activating PC-6 not only helps with nervous system calming acupressure but is also beneficial for alleviating nausea, which can be a side effect of severe anxiety. Applying pressure to this point before a presentation will help you feel more centered and at ease.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Measure three finger widths below your wrist.
- Press between the tendons with your thumb.
- Hold for 1-2 minutes while breathing slowly and deeply.
Acupressure Point 3: Bai Hui (GV-20)
Bai Hui, or Governing Vessel 20 (GV-20), is located at the crown of your head, directly in line with the tips of your ears. It’s known for its ability to clear the mind, improve concentration, and calm the spirit.
Stimulating this point helps regulate the flow of energy to the brain and nervous system, making it ideal for relieving pre-presentation jitters. Whether you’re feeling scattered or experiencing performance anxiety, applying pressure to Bai Hui can help you feel more grounded and mentally clear.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Locate the point at the top of your head by drawing an imaginary line from the tops of your ears.
- Press gently with your fingertips or massage in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes.
- Focus on your breathing as you stimulate this point, enhancing the calming effect.
Acupressure Point 4: Lao Gong (PC-8)
Lao Gong, or Pericardium 8 (PC-8), is found in the center of your palm, between the second and third metacarpal bones (roughly where your middle finger touches when you make a fist). This point is known for its ability to release tension, especially in situations of high stress.
When activated, Lao Gong helps calm the heart, release nervous energy, and boost mental clarity. This is particularly useful for overcoming nervousness during high-pressure moments like public speaking.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Make a light fist and notice where your middle finger touches your palm—that’s the Lao Gong point.
- Use the thumb of the opposite hand to press firmly into this spot.
- Hold for 1-2 minutes, switching hands, and take deep breaths to enhance relaxation.
Acupressure Point 5: Xi Men (PC-4)
Xi Men, or Pericardium 4 (PC-4), is located on the inner forearm, about four finger-widths below the Nei Guan (PC-6) point, or approximately seven finger-widths below the wrist. This acupoint is specifically used for calming emotional distress and easing anxiety by regulating the energy of the heart and chest.
When activated, PC-4 helps relieve palpitations and emotional tension, making it highly effective if your anxiety manifests physically. Stimulating this point before your presentation can restore a sense of calm and prevent nervousness from taking over.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Find PC-6 first (three finger-widths below the wrist), then locate PC-4 about four finger-widths below PC-6.
- Apply firm but gentle pressure using your thumb.
- Massage in small circles for about 1-2 minutes, focusing on your breath to enhance its calming effect.
How Acupressure Helps with Nervous System Calming
The pressure applied to these acupoints helps regulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) in your body, which in TCM is believed to govern emotional balance and overall well-being. By calming the heart and stabilizing the mind, these points address the root causes of anxiety and nervousness.
Whether you have a major presentation or simply need to calm down before a stressful situation, the power of acupressure can help restore inner peace and focus. Next time you’re preparing to speak in public, try stimulating these five acupoints to help regulate your nervous system and reduce stress.
Incorporating these techniques into your routine not only helps with immediate relief but also supports long-term nervous system health.
