Relieve Nausea with Hand Pressure Points: Expert Tips from a TCM Therapist

Nausea can be an uncomfortable and disruptive experience, but Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers non-intrusive methods to alleviate this condition. By utilizing specific hand pressure points, you can find relief from nausea in a natural and effective manner. We have consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a TCM Therapist from Japan, to provide insights into the most effective pressure points. You can learn more about Ms. Sogawa and her expertise here. In this article, we’ll explore three key hand pressure points to help ease nausea: PC-6, PC-8, and PC-7.

Different Causes of Nausea in TCM

Nausea Caused by Motion Sickness

Motion sickness is typically seen in TCM as a disruption in the balance of the body’s qi due to the movement of the external environment, such as traveling by car, boat, or plane. This imbalance can disturb the Stomach qi, causing it to rebel upwards, leading to nausea and vomiting. The focus is on calming the Stomach and harmonizing the qi flow.

Nausea Caused by Stress or Anxiety

Nausea induced by stress or anxiety is understood in TCM as the result of Liver qi stagnation affecting the Stomach. When stress or emotional disturbances cause the Liver qi to become stagnant, it can overact on the Stomach, leading to symptoms like nausea. The approach here is to soothe the Liver, relieve the stagnation, and harmonize the interaction between the Liver and Stomach.

Understanding Hand Pressure Points for Nausea

PC-6 – Nei Guan

The Pericardium 6 (PC-6), also known as Nei Guan, is one of the most well-known pressure points for nausea relief. This point is located on the inner forearm, about three finger-widths down from the wrist crease, between the two tendons.

To locate PC-6, measure three finger-widths down from your wrist crease on the inner forearm. Once you find the spot between the two tendons, use your thumb to press firmly on this point. Apply steady pressure and gently massage in a circular motion for 2-3 minutes. This technique helps relieve nausea and vomiting, alleviates motion sickness, and reduces anxiety and stress.

PC-8 – Lao Gong

The Pericardium 8 (PC-8), or Lao Gong, is located in the center of the palm. This point is especially useful for calming the mind and reducing nausea related to anxiety or stress.

To find PC-8, make a loose fist and notice where the tip of your middle finger lands on your palm. This is the location of PC-8. Use your thumb to press firmly into the center of your palm at this spot. Apply pressure and massage in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes. Stimulating PC-8 can ease nausea and vomiting, calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and help with digestive issues.

PC-7 – Da Ling

The Pericardium 7 (PC-7), also known as Da Ling, is found at the wrist crease, in line with the middle finger. This point is effective in treating nausea, especially when associated with heartburn or digestive problems.

To locate PC-7, identify the wrist crease on the inner side of your forearm, in line with the middle finger. Press firmly on this point using your thumb and massage in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes. Stimulating PC-7 helps relieve nausea and vomiting, alleviates heartburn and indigestion, and calms the mind and reduces stress.

Tips to Reduce Nausea

In addition to stimulating hand pressure points, there are several practical tips to help reduce nausea:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink small sips of water or clear fluids frequently to prevent dehydration, which can worsen nausea.
• Eat Lightly: Consume small, frequent meals and avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods that can aggravate nausea.
• Fresh Air: Breathing fresh air or going for a gentle walk can help reduce feelings of nausea.
• Ginger: Consuming ginger in the form of tea, candies, or supplements can help soothe nausea.
• Deep Breathing: Practice deep breathing exercises to relax your body and mind, which can help alleviate nausea caused by stress.
• Rest: Ensure you get adequate rest and avoid strenuous activities that can exacerbate nausea.

Conclusion

Utilizing hand pressure points is a simple, non-intrusive way to manage nausea effectively. By focusing on PC-6, PC-8, and PC-7, you can find relief from various forms of nausea, whether it is due to motion sickness, anxiety, or digestive issues. For more insights into TCM techniques, feel free to explore our resources and consult experts like Ms. Mai Sogawa.