P. Sze 
Acupressure Points to Calm Anxiety at Work
Anxiety at work is an all-too-common experience, with mounting deadlines, meetings, and unexpected tasks often leading to stress. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers natural and non-invasive methods to help manage anxiety effectively, including the use of acupressure. Acupressure, an ancient technique, involves stimulating specific points on the body to promote relaxation, balance emotions, and improve overall well-being. In this article, we’ll explore key acupressure points for anxiety relief at work, based on the guidance of TCM therapist Ms. Mai Sogawa. For a deeper dive into techniques, you can also consult our comprehensive acupressure guide.
How Does Acupressure Help with Anxiety?
In TCM, anxiety is often viewed as an imbalance in the body’s energy, or “Qi.” When stress disrupts the flow of Qi, it can lead to emotional and physical symptoms. By applying pressure to specific acupressure points, we can help restore balance, releasing tension and encouraging a sense of calm. These points are easy to use in an office setting, making acupressure for anxiety relief an accessible tool during the workday.
Here are seven acupressure points that can help instantly calm anxiety, no matter where you are.
1. Shen Men (HT-7) – Spirit Gate
Location: On the inner wrist, on the crease below the little finger.
Shen Men, or “Spirit Gate,” is known to calm the mind and reduce irritability. Often used in TCM for treating insomnia and emotional instability, applying gentle pressure to HT-7 can help ease racing thoughts and restore mental clarity. To stimulate this point, press gently with the thumb of your opposite hand in circular motions for about 1-2 minutes on each wrist.
2. Nei Guan (PC-6) – Inner Pass
Location: Three finger-widths down from the wrist crease, between the two tendons on the inner forearm.
Nei Guan is often used for its calming effects on both the mind and body. Known to relieve nausea, headaches, and stress, PC-6 is also highly effective for managing anxiety at work. Simply press down with your thumb, massaging in circular motions for about a minute to experience its grounding effects.
3. Bai Hui (GV-20) – Hundred Meetings
Location: At the top of the head, approximately at the midpoint between the ears.
GV-20 is a vital acupressure point for grounding energy and clearing the mind. Stimulating this point can help with clarity, focus, and relaxation, making it especially useful during a hectic workday. Use your fingers to apply gentle pressure to this point, focusing on slow breathing as you massage for 1-2 minutes. This can be done discreetly while seated at a desk.
4. Lao Gong (PC-8) – Palace of Labor
Location: In the center of the palm, where the tip of the middle finger touches when you make a fist.
Lao Gong is known for its ability to release tension and soothe the heart. It is particularly helpful when experiencing symptoms like nervous sweating, palpitations, or excessive worrying. Press firmly in the center of your palm with the thumb of your opposite hand. Apply circular pressure while focusing on slow, deep breaths to quickly calm anxious energy.
5. He Gu (LI-4) – Joining Valley
Location: In the webbing between the thumb and index finger.
LI-4, or He Gu, is a well-known acupressure point often used for headaches and general tension. It’s also effective for easing anxiety by releasing blocked Qi, which can build up due to stress. Simply press down on this point and apply circular pressure for 1-2 minutes. You can perform this technique on either hand, making it a convenient option for quick relief during a workday.
Note: LI-4 should be avoided by pregnant individuals, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
6. Xi Men (PC-4) – Cleft Gate
Location: First, locate PC-6 by measuring three finger-widths down from the wrist crease between the two tendons on the inner forearm. From there, slide four more finger-widths down along the same line to find PC-4.
Xi Men is often used in TCM to calm emotions and relieve chest tension. Anxiety can lead to tightness in the chest and discomfort, and this point works to release that pent-up energy. Use your thumb to apply gentle pressure for about a minute, focusing on steady breaths. This point is especially beneficial if anxiety is leading to palpitations or restlessness.
7. Dan Zhong (Ren-17) – Chest Center
Location: Center of the chest, between the nipples.
Dan Zhong is a powerful point for calming the heart and releasing chest tension, which can often accompany anxiety. Known to promote relaxation, Ren-17 can be gently pressed using the index or middle finger while taking slow breaths. You can massage this area for 1-2 minutes to feel a soothing effect, especially when feeling overwhelmed or anxious during work.
Tips for Practicing Acupressure at Work
Using acupressure for anxiety relief in the workplace can be both discreet and effective. Here are a few tips to make it easy to incorporate into your routine:
- Breathe Deeply: Slow, mindful breathing enhances the effects of acupressure. Inhale slowly, hold briefly, and exhale fully while you press each point.
- Stay Consistent: Regular use of these points may help you manage ongoing stress more effectively. Try using one or two points during short breaks each day.
- Stay Mindful of Body Position: Whether sitting or standing, find a comfortable position that allows you to fully focus on the point you’re stimulating.
- Try Combination Techniques: Combining acupressure with other calming practices, such as mindfulness or short stretches, can enhance relaxation.
How Quickly Can Acupressure Work for Anxiety Relief?
One of the benefits of acupressure is its immediacy; many people feel relief within just a few minutes. However, results may vary based on individual sensitivity and the severity of anxiety. Practicing acupressure consistently can provide better control over stress responses, making it a valuable tool for those with recurring work-related anxiety.
Final Thoughts
When anxiety begins to build during the workday, acupressure provides a convenient and accessible way to find calm and maintain focus. These acupressure points, recommended by TCM expert Ms. Mai Sogawa, target tension points in the body that often store stress, helping to calm the mind and restore balance. Whether you’re at your desk or on a break, acupressure for anxiety relief is a simple method to ease your mind and carry on with a clearer, more composed outlook.
By taking just a few moments each day to activate these points, you may find a greater sense of calm and resilience at work.
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