P. Sze 
Stabilize Your Emotions Naturally with an Ear Seed Routine for Mood Swings
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by mood swings and are looking for a natural, non-invasive solution, consider using an ear seed routine. Ear seeds, an essential part of auriculotherapy, are tiny seeds or beads applied to specific acupressure points on the ear to stimulate balance and healing. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the ear is a microsystem reflecting the entire body, and ear seeds can target emotional and physical health. For this article, we consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a TCM Therapist from Japan. You can learn more about her expertise on our team here. If you’re new to auriculotherapy, we recommend reading our comprehensive guide to ear seeds for an in-depth overview.
Here’s how to incorporate ear seeds into your self-care routine to stabilize mood swings and regain emotional control.
How Ear Seeds Can Help with Mood Swings
Ear seeds work by applying consistent, gentle pressure to specific auricular points associated with emotional stability and stress relief. TCM connects the ear to the body’s internal organs and meridian channels, meaning that stimulating these points can harmonize energy flow (Qi). Whether you’re dealing with irritability, sadness, or anxiety, ear seeds offer a simple, portable way to manage emotions naturally.
Step-by-Step Ear Seed Routine for Stabilizing Mood Swings
We asked Ms. Mai Sogawa for a step-by-step routine, and here is her expert recommendation for effectively using ear seeds during a stressful day:
1. Prepare Your Ears for Stimulation
Before applying ear seeds, it’s essential to relax the ears and ensure they’re ready for stimulation.
- Massage the Ears: Place your thumb behind the ear and your index finger in front. Gently massage the ear by pinching and kneading the entire outer ear.
- Lightly Pull or Shake: After massaging, lightly tug or shake the ears to encourage blood flow.
- Warmth Is Key: Continue until the ears feel warm and relaxed, which indicates improved circulation and readiness for ear seed placement.
This preparatory step enhances sensitivity to acupressure stimulation, maximizing the benefits of ear seeds.
2. Locate Key Acupressure Points
Here are the specific points recommended by Ms. Mai:
- Shenmen (#36): Located at the triangular fossa, near the top of the ear. Known as the “Spirit Gate,” this point helps calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.
- Heart (#1): Found on the lower concha, just above the earlobe and close to the ear canal. This point is associated with regulating emotional imbalances, especially sadness and agitation.
- Kidney (#12): Situated in the upper concha, near the center of the ear. Stimulating this point helps alleviate fear and supports emotional resilience.
- Ms. Mai’s Recommended Auricular Point (Red Dot): Located near the anti-tragus, at the outer part of the ear’s base. This additional balancing point enhances overall emotional harmony and reduces stress.
3. Apply the Ear Seeds
Follow these steps to place the ear seeds properly:
- Clean the Ear: Use alcohol wipes to clean the area where the seeds will be applied. This ensures better adhesion and reduces the risk of irritation.
- Place the Seeds: Using tweezers, carefully apply the ear seeds (either adhesive-backed seeds or pellets) to the identified points.
- Press for Activation: Once applied, gently press the seeds for a few seconds to stimulate the points and ensure secure placement.
4. Stimulate the Points Throughout the Day
- Throughout the day, press on the seeds for 15–30 seconds whenever you feel stressed or notice mood fluctuations.
- Repeat stimulation at least three times daily to maintain emotional balance and enhance the effects.
5. Remove and Replace Regularly
- Leave the ear seeds on for three to five days, depending on your comfort. Replace them as needed for continued benefits.
Benefits of This Routine for Emotional Stability
Incorporating this ear seed routine into your day can yield the following benefits:
- Reduced Anxiety: Shenmen and Kidney points help soothe overactive emotions and instill calm.
- Improved Mood Regulation: Stimulating the Heart point addresses sadness and irritation at their root.
- Stress Relief: Ms. Mai’s recommended auricular point offers a holistic way to ease tension and find equilibrium.
- Enhanced Self-Control: Regular use promotes greater emotional awareness, helping you respond to triggers more effectively.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Ear Seeds
- Combine with Deep Breathing: Pairing ear seed stimulation with diaphragmatic breathing can amplify the calming effects.
- Stay Consistent: For lasting results, use this routine regularly, even on non-stressful days.
- Consult a Professional: If you’re new to ear seeds, seek guidance from a TCM practitioner for personalized advice.
Why Choose Ear Seeds for Mood Swings?
Ear seeds are a gentle, non-invasive way to address mood swings without the need for medications or complex therapies. As Ms. Mai highlights, this simple yet effective technique empowers individuals to regain control over their emotions using the natural principles of TCM.
Whether you’re navigating a particularly stressful day or looking to maintain long-term emotional balance, this ear seed routine offers a practical solution you can carry anywhere. Ready to give it a try? Start today and feel in control again!
Try our Anti-Aging Gua Sha Tool designed to bring out your skin’s natural glow.
Best Gua Sha Product- Anti-Aging: The tool is designed to target 11 specific aging signs such as wrinkles and sagging skin. By following the 7-step routine, users can improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines naturally.
- Enhances Skincare Routine: It works effectively with serums and lotions, boosting absorption and efficacy of skincare products.
- Visible Skin Improvement: Users can expect a smoother complexion, reduced puffiness, and a more youthful appearance.
