Acupressure Therapy

Acupressure, like acupuncture , works by stimulating points that increase the energy (or chi) flowing through the body.

It is used primarily for pain management and stress relief, although it can be used for a whole host of other physical ailments.

The body points, or meridians, used are exactly the same as acupuncture body points - the difference is in how the points are stimulated.

Instead of using fine needles, acupressure uses the hands, fingers, or other instrument to massage the body point. It is not as "invasive" as acupuncture, in that the instrument stimulating the point does not break the skin.

It is actually an older technique than acupuncture in Traditional Chinese Medicine, but acupuncture became more prevalent due to the more precise stimulation offered by the insertion of the needles.

Unlike acupuncture, you can manipulate the points on yourself or others without fear of injury making it ideal for those afraid of the long needles. Even if you are unsure of the precise location of the body point, you will do no harm (the treatment will simply be less effective).

Both techniques can relieve headaches, sinus problems, neck and back pain, arthritis pain, menstrual cramps, and indigestion. It is also effective on muscle aches and tension due to stress or anxiety, and can help you get to sleep or fight insomnia. While it can also help in weight loss, it is not effective as a weight loss techinque on its own and is used in conjunction with diet and exercise.

It is less commonly available in a spa setting, however, than acupuncture.

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