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Natural Ways to Ease Dizziness in Seniors Through Acupressure
Vertigo is a common complaint among older adults, and while many associate it with inner ear issues or neurological conditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) suggests another overlooked culprit: poor circulation. Fortunately, there’s a gentle, non-invasive way to manage it at home—acupressure for vertigo.
We spoke with Ms. Mai Sogawa, a certified TCM therapist from Japan, about this issue. You can read more about her here. She recommends a simple acupressure routine that can be done first thing in the morning—even while still in bed.
If you’re new to this technique, check out our comprehensive guide to acupressure to learn about its benefits, techniques, and safety tips.
Below are the key pressure points Ms. Mai recommends, and how you can incorporate them into your daily routine to help alleviate vertigo symptoms linked to poor blood flow.
The Connection Between Vertigo and Circulation
In TCM, vertigo is often linked to imbalances in the flow of qi (energy) and blood. When circulation is sluggish, especially in the upper body and head, it can result in dizziness, disorientation, and even fainting sensations. Seniors are especially prone due to naturally declining cardiovascular efficiency.
By stimulating specific acupoints, you can help enhance circulation, improve energy flow, and reduce vertigo symptoms without medication.
Acupressure Points That Help Relieve Vertigo
GV-20 (Baihui or Hundred Convergences)
- Location: At the top of the head, midway between the ears.
- TCM Benefits: Clears the mind, raises yang energy, and improves circulation to the brain.
- How to Use: Use your middle finger to gently press down for 3 to 5 seconds while taking deep breaths.
GB-12 (Wangu or Completion Bone)
- Location: Behind the earlobe, in the depression just below the base of the skull.
- TCM Benefits: Disperses wind and calms the spirit, beneficial for dizziness, insomnia, and headaches.
- How to Use: Apply light to moderate pressure using your thumb or index finger. Hold for a few seconds and release slowly.
PC-6 (Neiguan or Inner Gate)
- Location: Three finger-widths below the wrist on the inner forearm, between the two tendons.
- TCM Benefits: Regulates heart qi, calms the spirit, and promotes blood circulation. Also widely used for nausea and motion sickness.
- How to Use: Gently press the point while breathing deeply. You can massage in small circles for a few seconds for added benefit.
TE-7 (Zhigou or Ancestral Meeting)
- Location: On the outer side of the forearm, about four finger-widths up from the wrist crease.
- TCM Benefits: Balances the triple burner (San Jiao), clears heat, and improves the flow of fluids and qi in the upper body.
- How to Use: Use the thumb to apply slow, steady pressure, then release after 3–5 seconds.
How to Incorporate Acupressure Into Your Morning Routine
Ms. Mai suggests that this acupressure for vertigo routine can be done as soon as you wake up. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Stay in bed: There’s no need to rush out. Stay lying down or sit comfortably with your back supported.
- Take deep breaths: Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth.
- Press each point gently: Use your fingers to locate the acupoints mentioned above. Apply gentle pressure to each for 3–5 seconds.
- Repeat if needed: You can go through the routine once or repeat it twice to enhance its effects.
- End with light stretching: Gently move your head side to side and stretch your neck and shoulders to support circulation.
Additional Tips for Managing Vertigo Naturally
While acupressure is a great self-care technique, combining it with lifestyle changes can maximize its effectiveness:
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can worsen dizziness.
- Avoid sudden movements: Stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions.
- Balance your meals: Include circulation-boosting foods like leafy greens, ginger, and fish rich in omega-3s.
- Get regular exercise: Walking and tai chi are excellent for promoting blood flow and balance in seniors.
- Limit salt and caffeine: These can affect inner ear fluid balance and exacerbate vertigo.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Although acupressure is a safe and natural way to reduce symptoms of vertigo, it’s important to seek medical attention if:
- Dizziness is severe or persistent
- You experience blurred vision, slurred speech, or weakness
- There’s a sudden change in hearing or balance
These may indicate underlying conditions that require immediate attention.
Final Thoughts
As Ms. Mai Sogawa emphasizes, practicing acupressure for vertigo as part of your morning routine can help improve circulation and reduce dizziness, especially in older adults. By taking a few minutes each day to stimulate key acupoints, you’re not only addressing symptoms but also supporting your overall health.
Whether you’re new to acupressure or exploring it as part of a holistic health journey, consistency and mindfulness are key. And always remember—gentle self-care can be a powerful step toward balance and wellness.
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