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Best Acupressure Points to Boost Energy During the Afternoon Slump
Many people experience an energy dip in the afternoon, leading to fatigue and sluggishness. Fortunately, acupressure can offer a natural way to boost energy levels. By applying pressure to specific points on the body, you can stimulate energy flow and improve alertness. To gain deeper insight into this practice, we consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapist. For more information about Ms. Mai’s expertise, you can find her bio here.
Acupressure for energy boost is an ancient technique rooted in TCM that involves applying pressure to specific points along energy pathways, or meridians. These pathways can influence the body’s Qi, or life force, which is essential for maintaining energy and balance. If you’re looking for a comprehensive overview of acupressure, be sure to check out our guide to acupressure techniques, benefits, and side effects.
Here are seven key acupressure points recommended by Ms. Mai to help you regain your energy during the dreaded afternoon slump.
1. BL-2 (Zan Zhu) – Eyebrow Area
BL-2, located at the inner edge of the eyebrows, is a powerful acupressure point to stimulate when you’re feeling mentally exhausted. This point can help relieve eye strain, reduce tension in the face, and refresh your mind.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Use your thumbs or index fingers.
- Gently press the point at the beginning of your eyebrows for about 30 seconds to one minute.
- Focus on breathing deeply to enhance relaxation and energy flow.
By targeting BL-2, you can quickly reduce mental fatigue and improve focus during the mid-afternoon dip.
2. ST-2 (Si Bai) – Under the Eyes
Located directly below the pupil, on the cheekbone, ST-2 is another vital point to increase energy and relieve tiredness. This point is especially useful for refreshing the eyes and invigorating the face.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Gently press the area with your fingertips.
- Hold for 30 seconds to one minute, applying moderate pressure.
- Repeat on both sides of the face.
This point is great if you find yourself struggling to stay awake, especially after long hours of screen time.
3. PC-8 (Lao Gong) – Palm Center
The PC-8 point, found in the center of the palm, is particularly helpful for re-energizing the body. This point is often used to calm the mind, reduce stress, and boost overall vitality.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Press the center of your palm with the thumb of the opposite hand.
- Apply firm pressure for one minute on each hand.
- Breathe deeply and relax your shoulders as you hold the point.
PC-8 is ideal for regaining focus and relieving tension during a busy afternoon.
4. LI-4 (He Gu) – Between Thumb and Index Finger
LI-4 is one of the most well-known acupressure points for boosting energy and reducing tension. Located between the thumb and index finger, this point stimulates the flow of Qi and can help with fatigue, headaches, and general sluggishness.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Firmly pinch the area between your thumb and index finger.
- Hold for 30 seconds to one minute, then switch to the other hand.
- Apply consistent pressure, but make sure not to overdo it as this area can be sensitive.
In addition to giving you an energy boost, LI-4 can help reduce stress, making it a versatile point to use throughout the day.
5. ST-36 (Zu San Li) – Below the Knee
ST-36 is one of the most important acupressure points in TCM. Located below the knee, it is known to strengthen the body’s overall energy levels, enhance digestion, and improve stamina.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Locate the point about four finger-widths below the kneecap, on the outer side of the leg.
- Use your thumb to apply firm pressure for one to two minutes.
- Repeat on both legs.
ST-36 is often referred to as the “longevity point” and is ideal for those needing a sustained energy boost.
6. GV-20 (Bai Hui) – Top of the Head
GV-20, located at the crown of the head, is known for its ability to refresh and elevate energy. Stimulating this point can help combat mental fatigue, improve concentration, and promote a sense of clarity.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Find the point by drawing a line from the tops of both ears to the top of your head.
- Use your fingertips to gently press and massage this area in small circular motions.
- Continue for 30 seconds to one minute.
GV-20 is perfect for clearing the mind and enhancing focus, making it ideal when your brain feels foggy.
7. KI-1 (Yong Quan) – Sole of the Foot
The KI-1 point, located on the sole of the foot, is essential for grounding and re-energizing. This point can help restore balance to your body’s energy and improve vitality.
How to Apply Pressure:
- Sit comfortably and cross one leg over the other.
- Press into the center of your foot, about one-third down from the base of the toes.
- Hold for 30 seconds to one minute on each foot.
Massaging this point can help relieve fatigue, especially if you’ve been on your feet all day.
How to Incorporate Acupressure into Your Routine
For best results, try using these acupressure points throughout your day, particularly when you feel your energy dipping. You don’t need to apply pressure to all seven points at once—choose two or three based on how you’re feeling. Incorporating acupressure into your afternoon routine is a simple and effective way to naturally boost your energy levels without relying on caffeine or other stimulants.
Acupressure for energy boost is a powerful tool that can help you stay alert and focused, no matter how demanding your day is. By stimulating the right points, you can refresh your mind and body, making the afternoon slump a thing of the past.
For more tips on using acupressure, be sure to visit our comprehensive acupressure guide.
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