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Top Pressure Points to Boost Energy During Tired Afternoons
When the mid-afternoon slump hits, feeling sluggish or mentally foggy can make it difficult to stay focused and productive. Fortunately, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers simple acupressure techniques that can naturally boost energy and improve mental clarity. Acupressure involves applying gentle pressure to specific points on the body to promote circulation, reduce stress, and support the body’s natural energy flow. To create this guide, we consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a TCM therapist, who highlighted some effective pressure points for overcoming afternoon fatigue.
If you’re new to acupressure, you might find our comprehensive guide to acupressure helpful to understand the basics and get started with confidence.
How Acupressure Boosts Energy
In TCM, low energy and fatigue are often due to an imbalance in the body’s Qi (vital energy) flow. When Qi stagnates or becomes depleted, it can lead to tiredness, brain fog, and lack of motivation. Acupressure helps stimulate and harmonize Qi flow, promoting a quick and effective energy boost by working with the body’s natural energy pathways. Below are five TCM-recommended acupressure points for recharging during afternoon slumps.
1. BL-2 (Bamboo Gathering)
Located at the inner edge of each eyebrow, this point can be easily accessed and is ideal for reducing mental fatigue and enhancing focus. Stimulating this point also relieves eye strain, which is often a factor in midday tiredness, especially if you’ve been staring at a screen.
- How to Use: Using your thumbs, press gently on the inner corners of your eyebrows for about 30 seconds. Take slow, deep breaths as you press, and repeat as needed.
2. GB-20 (Wind Pool)
Positioned at the base of the skull, on either side of the neck, GB-20 is a highly effective point for revitalizing energy and alertness. This point is particularly useful for relieving tension and mental fog, making it perfect for an afternoon energy boost.
- How to Use: Place your thumbs at the base of your skull, just outside the spine, and apply firm pressure for about one minute. This not only energizes the body but can also relieve any tension in the neck or shoulders that may be weighing you down.
3. GV-20 (Hundred Meetings)
Located at the crown of the head, GV-20 is a powerful point for lifting mental clarity and focus. Known for its ability to “raise” the body’s energy, it is often used in TCM for improving alertness and concentration.
- How to Use: To find this point, draw an imaginary line from the tips of your ears to the top of your head. Gently press with your fingertips and hold for 1-2 minutes. Breathe deeply as you hold this point, feeling the energy refresh and circulate.
4. KI-1 (Gushing Spring)
This point is located on the sole of the foot, approximately one-third of the way down from the base of the toes toward the heel, in a slight depression when the foot is in a flexed position.
- How to Use: While sitting, apply gentle pressure with your thumb to this point, massaging in small circles for about one minute on each foot. This can help revive your energy and promote a renewed sense of stability and focus.
5. PC-9 (Middle Rushing)
Located at the tip of the middle finger, PC-9 is associated with both clarity and mental alertness. This point is ideal for a quick wake-up when you’re starting to feel drowsy, as it stimulates circulation and helps clear any lingering brain fog.
- How to Use: Simply press the tip of your middle finger for 30 seconds on each hand. You can do this multiple times throughout the day whenever you need a quick pick-me-up.
Additional Tips to Maximize Energy Naturally
Along with acupressure, a few lifestyle adjustments can help prevent mid-afternoon slumps and keep energy levels steady throughout the day:
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and concentration issues. Aim to drink water regularly, especially in the morning and early afternoon.
- Mindful Breathing: Deep, slow breaths can help relieve stress and stimulate the flow of Qi. Incorporate a few minutes of mindful breathing exercises before starting acupressure to enhance its effectiveness.
- Balanced Diet: Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich meal at lunch can help sustain energy. Avoid heavy or sugary foods that may cause a quick rise and fall in energy.
- Move Regularly: Brief, light stretches or a short walk can re-energize the body and keep circulation moving, aiding in sustained focus.
Final Thoughts
Acupressure offers a convenient, natural solution for managing midday fatigue and reviving mental clarity without relying on caffeine or sugar. By using these five powerful acupressure points recommended by Ms. Mai Sogawa, you can support your body’s natural energy flow, promoting a calm, focused, and revitalized state of mind even on the busiest afternoons.
Whether you’re at your desk, at home, or on the go, acupressure provides a simple yet effective way to recharge your energy and take on the rest of your day with focus and vitality.
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