P. Sze 
Acupressure Techniques to Alleviate Chronic Stress Naturally
Chronic stress can feel overwhelming, but Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers natural, effective solutions to help you find relief. Acupressure, a time-honored technique, involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to release tension and promote relaxation. Even better, it’s simple to practice, requiring no tools.
To help you navigate this self-care practice, we consulted TCM therapist Ms. Mai Sogawa, whose expertise you can explore here. In this article, we’ll introduce seven key acupressure points for chronic stress relief. If you’re new to acupressure, you may find our comprehensive guide to acupressure helpful as a starting point.
How Acupressure Helps with Stress
In TCM, stress disrupts the body’s energy flow, leading to imbalances. By stimulating specific acupressure points, you can help restore harmony, reduce anxiety, and enhance your overall sense of calm. Here are seven acupressure points you can easily incorporate into your routine.
1. Shenmen (HT-7): The Spirit Gate
Located on the wrist crease near the little finger, this point is known for its ability to soothe the mind.
- How to find it: Look at your wrist crease. HT-7 is on the pinky side, in a slight depression.
- How to use it: Press and massage in small circles for 1–2 minutes on each wrist.
- Benefits: Calms the mind, reduces anxiety, and promotes restful sleep.
2. Neiguan (PC-6): The Inner Gate
This point is found on the inner forearm, three finger-widths above the wrist crease, between the two tendons.
- How to find it: Hold out your arm with the palm facing up and measure three finger-widths from your wrist crease.
- How to use it: Press firmly with your thumb, massaging in circles for 1–2 minutes on each arm.
- Benefits: Eases stress, relieves nausea, and improves emotional balance.
3. Baihui (GV-20): The Hundred Meetings
Baihui sits at the crown of the head, where the tops of the ears meet an imaginary line across the skull.
- How to find it: Gently tap or press the crown of your head.
- How to use it: Massage the area in a circular motion for 1–2 minutes.
- Benefits: Clears the mind, boosts energy, and reduces tension headaches.
4. Taichong (Liv-3): Great Rushing
Found on the top of the foot, in the depression between the big toe and the second toe, Liv-3 is a powerful point for calming stress.
- How to find it: Trace the space between the big and second toes until you reach a tender spot.
- How to use it: Press firmly with your thumb and massage in circles for 1–2 minutes on each foot.
- Benefits: Alleviates tension, reduces anger, and promotes emotional stability.
5. Hegu (LI-4): Joining Valley
Hegu, located on the fleshy part between the thumb and index finger, is one of the most versatile acupressure points.
- How to find it: Pinch the webbing of your hand between your thumb and forefinger.
- How to use it: Apply pressure with your opposite thumb, making firm circles for 1–2 minutes on each hand.
- Benefits: Relieves stress, headaches, and muscular tension.
6. Laogong (PC-8): Palace of Labor
This point lies at the center of the palm, where your middle finger naturally rests when you close your hand into a loose fist.
- How to find it: Close your fist and notice where the tip of your middle finger touches the palm.
- How to use it: Press firmly with your opposite thumb, massaging in circles for 1–2 minutes on each hand.
- Benefits: Calms the nervous system and relieves irritability.
7. Zhaohai (KD-6): Shining Sea
Zhaohai is located below the inner ankle bone in a small hollow.
- How to find it: Feel for a tender depression below your ankle bone.
- How to use it: Use your thumb to apply steady pressure for 1–2 minutes on each side.
- Benefits: Promotes relaxation, improves sleep, and helps balance emotions.
Stress Relief Anywhere, Anytime
Ms. Mai recommends using these acupressure points during stressful moments or as part of a daily self-care routine. You can stimulate the points discreetly while at your desk, during a commute, or in the middle of a hectic day. No tools are required—just your hands and focused intention.
Daily Tips to Enhance Acupressure
- Morning: Stimulate Baihui and Neiguan to start your day with clarity.
- Afternoon: Use Laogong and Shenmen for a midday reset.
- Evening: Relax with Taichong and Zhaohai before bed to ensure a restful night.
Takeaway
Acupressure offers an accessible way to combat chronic stress, supporting emotional and physical balance. Incorporating these techniques into your daily life can help you manage stress effectively and promote long-term calm. For more insights into TCM and natural health practices, explore our comprehensive guide to acupressure.
Start practicing these techniques today to discover how simple, consistent care can make a significant difference in your well-being.
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