Acupressure

According to the principles of TCM, qi flows through the body via 14 primary meridians or channels. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same pressure points and meridians, but acupuncture employs needles, while acupressure uses gentle to firm pressure and integrates bodywork therapies and therapeutic touch. Acupressure uses fingers, hand or elbows to skillfully press key points, which stimulate the body’s own natural curative abilities. When these trigger points, called acupoints, are pressed, they release muscular tension, and promote circulation of blood, and the body’s life force energy, called qi, to aid healing. To strengthen the flow of qi, or remove blockages in the meridians, physical pressure is applied to acupuncture points that pass close to the skin,. Practitioners discovered that pressing certain points on the body relieved pain where it occurred and also benefited other parts of the body more remote from the pain and the pressure point, thereby stimulating the body’s own internal regulatory system and nurturing it’s natural healing response. Over time they found locations that alleviated pain and influenced the functioning of certain internal organs. Acupressure can be used to relieve pain, balance the body and maintain good health. Acupressure reduces tension, increases circulation, and enables the body to relax deeply. By relieving stress, acupressure therapy strengthens resistance to disease and promotes wellness.