P. Sze 
Essential Acupressure Techniques to Ease Stress Between Back-to-Back Meetings
If you find yourself feeling stressed and drained after back-to-back meetings, you’re not alone. Many of us need quick and effective ways to stay calm and focused during intense schedules. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a practical solution with acupressure for stress relief between meetings—a technique that activates the body’s natural relaxation response in just minutes. With the guidance of Ms. Mai Sogawa, a TCM therapist from Japan here’s her bio, we’ll explore some of the most effective acupressure points to ease tension, reduce anxiety, and help you feel more centered as you navigate a busy day.
For more on acupressure basics, visit our comprehensive guide.
Acupressure Points for Fast Stress Relief
The following acupressure points, recommended by Ms. Mai, are easy to locate and offer calming effects within minutes. Whether you’re at your desk or in a waiting area, these techniques can help reduce tension, boost energy, and restore balance.
1. Shenmen (HT-7) – The Gateway to Calm
Located on the wrist crease, Shenmen (HT-7) is one of the most popular points for calming the mind and reducing stress. It’s also known as the “Spirit Gate” in TCM, symbolizing its impact on the heart and emotions.
- How to find it: Place your finger on the inner wrist crease, near the pinky side. Press down until you feel a slight ache.
- Technique: Apply steady pressure with your thumb, making small circles for 1–2 minutes.
- Benefits: Stimulates relaxation, reduces heart rate, and alleviates anxiety.
2. Neiguan (PC-6) – Easing Anxiety and Nausea
Neiguan (PC-6) is an essential acupressure point for those dealing with stress-related symptoms like anxiety and nausea. Often used to regulate emotions, this point can be especially helpful for a quick reset during stressful moments.
- How to find it: Locate it two to three finger widths down from your wrist crease, between the tendons in the center of your forearm.
- Technique: Apply firm pressure and make gentle circles with your thumb for 1–2 minutes.
- Benefits: Relieves anxiety, soothes the stomach, and promotes a feeling of calm.
3. Baihui (GV-20) – The Point for Mental Clarity
Baihui (GV-20), located at the crown of the head, is often called the “Hundred Meetings” point due to its central position. It’s known to clear the mind, increase alertness, and reduce mental fatigue, making it a great choice for mid-day stress relief.
- How to find it: Place your fingers at the top of your head, just above the line connecting your ears.
- Technique: Gently press down and hold for about 1 minute, or massage in small circles.
- Benefits: Promotes focus, mental clarity, and energy while relieving tension headaches.
4. Laogong (PC-8) – Energize and Refresh
Laogong (PC-8) is located on the palm and is often used to revive energy and alleviate stress. It’s particularly useful if you’re feeling mentally or emotionally fatigued after multiple meetings.
- How to find it: Place your middle finger at the center of your palm when your hand is in a fist; this is where Laogong lies.
- Technique: Press and rub in circular motions for about 1–2 minutes.
- Benefits: Calms the mind, helps release heat from the body, and reduces anxiety.
5. Hegu (LI-4) – Relieve Tension and Promote Relaxation
Hegu (LI-4) is widely used for stress relief, as it has a powerful effect on both physical and mental tension. Located between the thumb and index finger, this point is easily accessible even during meetings.
- How to find it: Locate the webbing between your thumb and index finger, and move slightly toward the base of your thumb.
- Technique: Press firmly with your opposite thumb, applying gentle pressure for about 1–2 minutes.
- Benefits: Eases headaches, reduces muscle tension, and promotes calmness.
6. Ximen (PC-4) – For Emotional Balance
Ximen (PC-4) is beneficial when dealing with emotional stress or feelings of overwhelm. This point is used to calm emotional fluctuations and promote a steady sense of well-being.
- How to find it: Begin by locating Neiguan (PC-6), which is about three finger widths below the wrist crease on the inner forearm, centered between the tendons. Once you’ve found PC-6, move four finger widths up toward the elbow along the same line to find Ximen (PC-4). Both points lie along the pericardium channel, making them easy to locate in succession.
- Technique: Apply gentle but steady pressure and hold for 1 minute, or massage in circular motions.
- Benefits: Reduces anxiety and provides emotional support.
7. Tanzhong (Ren-17) – Heart Center for Relaxation
Tanzhong (Ren-17) is located in the center of the chest and is commonly used to relieve stress and tension, especially related to emotional discomfort.
- How to find it: Place two to three fingers at the center of your chest, level with the fourth rib.
- Technique: Press gently but firmly, breathing deeply as you apply pressure for 1–2 minutes.
- Benefits: Soothes emotions, relaxes chest tension, and supports a steady, calm heartbeat.
Complementary Deep Breathing Technique
Deep breathing is an easy way to calm the nervous system and enhance the effects of acupressure. Ms. Mai recommends a simple technique:
- Inhale slowly through your nose to a count of four, allowing your belly to expand.
- Exhale fully through your mouth, emptying your lungs completely to a count of six.
- Repeat this cycle five times to help oxygenate the brain, reduce tension, and activate the parasympathetic nervous system for a deeper sense of relaxation.
Making Acupressure Part of Your Routine
Incorporating acupressure for stress relief between meetings can quickly become an easy part of your day. Practice these techniques as needed to maintain balance and focus, giving yourself a moment of calm between demanding tasks. As Ms. Mai emphasizes, combining targeted acupressure points with deep breathing offers a well-rounded approach to reducing stress and maintaining composure—even on the busiest days.
Explore acupressure further to discover how this ancient technique can enhance both physical and mental wellness.
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.
