P. Sze 
Essential Acupressure Remedies to Alleviate Digital Fatigue from Daily Phone Use
In today’s digital age, many of us spend hours each day on our phones, which often leads to uncomfortable symptoms like eye strain, neck pain, and general fatigue. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a variety of natural remedies, such as acupressure, that can effectively counter these issues and help rejuvenate the body. For this article, we consulted TCM therapist Ms. Mai Sogawa (learn more about Ms. Mai’s expertise here), who shared targeted acupressure techniques to combat digital strain, ease eye fatigue, and relieve neck pain. If you’re interested in a deeper understanding of acupressure, check out our comprehensive guide to acupressure.
Below, we’ll introduce the most effective acupressure points to help alleviate tech-related stress and restore relaxation to your eyes, neck, and mind.
How Acupressure Helps with Digital Fatigue
Acupressure is a TCM technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to relieve various symptoms. With digital fatigue, issues like strained eyes, tension headaches, and neck stiffness are common complaints, and specific acupoints can help relieve these symptoms by enhancing circulation, relaxing muscles, and calming the nervous system. Regular practice of acupressure can effectively reduce discomfort and help prevent digital strain from worsening over time.
Here are the top acupressure points recommended by Ms. Mai to address the physical effects of excessive phone use.
Key Acupressure Points to Relieve Eye Strain and Fatigue
BL-2: For Eye Relaxation and Relief from Digital Eye Strain
Located at the inner edge of each eyebrow, the BL-2 point is especially beneficial for relieving eye strain and tension headaches caused by screen time. Applying gentle pressure here stimulates blood flow to the eye area, helping to relax strained muscles and reduce puffiness.
How to use it:
- Place both index fingers on the inner corners of your eyebrows.
- Apply gentle, upward pressure for about 10-15 seconds, then release.
- Repeat this 2-3 times, breathing deeply to promote relaxation.
BL-1: Improve Eye Circulation and Reduce Digital Fatigue
BL-1 is situated at the inner corner of the eyes, close to the bridge of the nose. This point is known to improve blood flow and circulation around the eyes, making it excellent for reducing dryness, eye strain, and even minor headaches that can result from prolonged phone use.
How to use it:
- Gently close your eyes and press this point with your thumbs.
- Apply light pressure for about 5-10 seconds, then release.
- Repeat this process three times for optimal relaxation.
GB-14: Relieves Forehead Tension and Eye Discomfort
GB-14 is located approximately one finger-width above the center of each eyebrow. This acupoint helps relieve tension across the forehead and the eyes, which is beneficial if you experience headaches or eye strain after looking at screens for extended periods.
How to use it:
- With your index fingers, press GB-14 gently.
- Hold the pressure for about 10 seconds and then release.
- Repeat as needed, especially when you feel tension in your forehead.
Acupressure Points for Neck and Shoulder Relief
BL-9: Relieve Neck Tension and Stiffness
BL-9 is located at the back of the head, just above the hairline and near the base of the skull, approximately one finger-width lateral to the midline. This acupoint is beneficial for relieving neck and upper back tension, which can result from looking down at screens for prolonged periods. Stimulating this point can help improve blood flow and ease stiffness in the neck and shoulders.
How to use it:
- Use your thumbs to press into the soft area just below the base of your skull, a few inches apart.
- Hold for 10 seconds, release, and repeat as needed to feel the tension ease.
Acupressure Points to Calm the Mind and Alleviate Stress
HT-7: Alleviate Stress and Anxiety from Digital Overload
HT-7, known as the “Spirit Gate,” is found on the wrist’s inner side, along the crease, in line with the pinky finger. This point is well-known in TCM for its calming effects, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, and irritability. Using HT-7 can be helpful for both physical and mental relief after long hours of screen time.
How to use it:
- Using your thumb, press gently on HT-7 while supporting your hand with the other.
- Apply firm pressure for 10-15 seconds, release, and repeat on the other wrist.
- Practice this technique whenever you feel overwhelmed or mentally fatigued.
Tips for Enhancing Your Acupressure Practice
Acupressure is a simple and effective way to manage symptoms of digital fatigue, but combining it with other mindful practices can enhance the benefits. Here are a few additional tips:
- Take Regular Breaks: Every 20-30 minutes, take a break from your screen. Stretching and looking away from your device will help reduce the strain on your neck and eyes.
- Practice Deep Breathing: Breathing exercises help relax your nervous system, amplifying the calming effects of acupressure.
- Use Warm Compresses: Applying a warm cloth over your eyes can relieve eye strain and prepare the eye area for acupressure.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential to keep your eyes from drying out, which is especially common with prolonged screen time.
Making Acupressure Part of Your Routine
Integrating acupressure into your daily routine is a proactive way to combat digital fatigue. By regularly stimulating the points recommended by Ms. Mai, you can reduce symptoms like eye strain, neck pain, and stress that accumulate from long hours of screen exposure. Not only is acupressure a practical remedy, but it’s also a natural, side-effect-free way to support your health and well-being in a tech-driven world.
Remember to practice these acupressure techniques consistently, and over time, you may notice that your eyes, neck, and mind feel less strained, even after hours of phone use.
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.
