Acupressure Tips for Sleep and Stress Relief for Exhausted New Parents

New parenthood often means navigating sleepless nights and high-stress days. As joyful as it can be, the constant demand can quickly wear down even the most energetic parents. Fortunately, acupressure for sleep and stress relief offers effective ways to bring calm, reduce anxiety, and encourage better rest for both parents and babies alike. We consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a TCM therapist from Japan, who shared helpful acupressure points and easy-to-follow techniques to support relaxation and deeper sleep.

For a more comprehensive look into acupressure, you can explore our complete guide to acupressure techniques.

How Acupressure Supports Better Sleep and Reduced Stress

Acupressure is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and involves applying gentle pressure to specific points on the body to balance energy, or “qi.” Through these methods, you can relax the nervous system, reduce muscle tension, and encourage a state of calmness. Below are practical acupressure points that can benefit both parents and their babies, along with guidance on how to use them.

Shenmen (HT-7) for Calming the Mind

Located on the wrist, Shenmen (HT-7) is known as the “Spirit Gate” point and is excellent for calming the mind, easing anxiety, and supporting restful sleep. Stimulating Shenmen helps relieve emotional stress and promotes relaxation.

How to Find and Use Shenmen

• Location: On the inside of the wrist, at the end of the crease below the little finger.
• Technique: Use the thumb to press gently on this point for 1-2 minutes on each wrist.
• Tip for Babies: Apply light, gentle pressure on Shenmen while holding your baby’s hand. This can help them relax before bedtime.

Neiguan (PC-6) for Reducing Anxiety and Nausea

Neiguan (PC-6) is known for its calming effects on the mind and is also effective for easing nausea and calming anxious feelings, making it a versatile point for both parents and babies.

How to Find and Use Neiguan

• Location: Three finger-widths above the wrist crease, between the two tendons on the inner forearm.
• Technique: Gently press Neiguan for 1-2 minutes on each arm.
• Tip for Babies: For infants, lightly press Neiguan on one arm, alternating between arms. This point can help relax their digestive system and reduce stress.

Yongquan (KI-1) for Grounding and Calming Energy

Yongquan (KI-1) is an acupressure point located on the sole of the foot, known for its grounding and calming effects. Stimulating Yongquan can reduce anxiety, clear the mind, and encourage restful sleep.

How to Find and Use Yongquan

• Location: On the sole of the foot, about one-third down from the base of the toes.
• Technique: Apply gentle, circular pressure on this point with your thumb. Massaging both feet for a few minutes before bed can help you feel more grounded.
• Tip for Babies: Use a gentle touch and slowly rub Yongquan to soothe your baby, especially if they seem fussy or overstimulated.

Jiuwei (Ren-15) for Easing Tension and Promoting Relaxation

Jiuwei (Ren-15) is an excellent point for reducing tension in the chest area, helping to release emotional stress and promote relaxation. It’s often used in TCM for calming the heart and is beneficial when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

How to Find and Use Jiuwei

• Location: On the midline of the chest, about one inch above the solar plexus.
• Technique: Use your index and middle fingers to apply gentle pressure to Jiuwei, massaging in small circles for about 1-2 minutes.
• Tip for Babies: Apply minimal pressure to this area and move your fingers in a light, soothing motion, which can help them relax.

Practical Tips for Using Acupressure with Babies

When applying acupressure to babies, it’s important to be mindful of pressure. Babies are more sensitive, so use a very light touch, focusing on slow, gentle motions. Here are some additional tips to make acupressure soothing and enjoyable for them:

• Choose Calm Moments: Apply acupressure during quiet times, like just before bed or during a mid-day nap.
• Observe Their Response: Babies might show they like a particular spot by relaxing or closing their eyes, or they may wiggle away if it feels uncomfortable. Adjust the pressure based on their reactions.
• Combine with Soothing Sounds: Pair acupressure with soft lullabies or white noise to deepen relaxation.

How Acupressure Helps You and Your Baby

Acupressure is particularly helpful for sleep-deprived parents who need to manage stress, soothe nerves, and find moments of calm throughout the day. By practicing acupressure regularly, you can experience:

• Reduced Anxiety: Points like Shenmen and Neiguan help calm the mind and ease stress, allowing you to feel more centered.
• Better Sleep Quality: Acupressure points like Yongquan support restful sleep by grounding your energy and reducing overstimulation.
• Enhanced Bonding: Practicing acupressure with your baby can create a calming bedtime ritual, helping both of you feel relaxed.

Additional Techniques for Deepening Relaxation

In addition to acupressure, you can incorporate other relaxation practices to amplify its effects:

• Practice Deep Breathing: Pairing acupressure with deep breathing helps relax the body and mind faster. Try breathing deeply for a count of four as you press each acupressure point.
• Create a Bedtime Routine: Integrate acupressure into your nighttime routine with calming activities like reading or gentle massage.
• Stay Consistent: Acupressure benefits increase with regular use. Try to set aside a few minutes each day for this practice, especially before sleep.

New parenthood can be challenging, but these acupressure techniques provide a natural, gentle way to nurture both yourself and your baby through the ups and downs of sleepless nights. By incorporating these practices, you’re giving yourself and your little one a chance to experience calm, restore energy, and feel more connected.

Try our Anti-Aging Gua Sha Tool designed to bring out your skin’s natural glow.

Best Gua Sha Product

Facial Gua Sha Tool For Beginner

Purchase on Amazon

• 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.

What a reviewer says: “The tool is made of ceramic. It’s very solid & it looks like it will last me a lifetime. I’ve used it about four times & it really brings circulation to the areas I work on. I believe in time it’s going to make a difference in my skin. It comes in a cute pink zipper bag for traveling. Also, it’s one of the only Gua Sha face tools that comes with an eBook & a quick start guide.”