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Acupressure is
often described as “Acupuncture without needles”,
and like acupuncture is based the theory that
qi or “life energy” flows along channels called
meridians, along which acupoints can be stimulated
to influence qi. The difference is that acupressure
uses finger and thumb pressure rather than needles.
It is widely practised in China, and on the increase
in the West although it is currently considered
to be less effective than acupuncture.
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acupuncture acupressure is based on the
concepts of Yin and Yang. Yin indicates
‘moon’ or shade, and Yang ‘sun’ or sunshine,
and they symbolise opposing but complementary
forces within the body (and nature generally).
It is essential for well being that these
forces are in balance. The interaction of
yin and yang generates “life energy” (qi)
that flows around the body along channels
called meridians. Problems on a meridian
can create illness at any point along it,
and there are around 365 acupoints along
the meridians at which qi is concentrated
and can enter and leave the body.
Acupressure involves influencing qi at these
points, and the practitioner does this using
her/his fingers, thumbs, and even feet and
knees.
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Massage can be vigorous and uses
many different techniques such as rubbing, kneading,
and a specific rolling action that is said to
recharge energy levels.Pressure is either applied
directly down or angled as the meridian flows,
and acupoints on both sides of the body are massaged
to ensure qi is balanced.
Self-help using acupressure is eminently possible
if you have a meridian/acupoint map. It can be
used for self-treating minor ailments such as
indigestion, nausea, and headaches.
Acupressure can provide relief
from many conditions, for example:
- Musculo-skeletal problems and arthritis.
- Stress, fatigue, insomnia.
- Allergies resulting in conditions such as
hay fever and asthma.
- Depression and anxiety.
- Nausea and digestive disorders.
- Headaches and migraines.
- High blood pressure.
- Women’s health problems.
Please note that a good Acupressure practitioner
will always do a thorough consultation before
commencing a treatment, and will also provide
advice about aftercare and homecare.
Bibliography
The following books were referenced for this
section and are all available (via the links)
in association with Amazon.co.uk:
Encyclopedia
of Natural Healing by Anne Woodham and Dr David
Peters
Holistic Therapy – A Practical Approach by Francesca
Gould
See our full range of Holistic
Therapy books in the Further Exploration
section.
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