Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient Asian system of healing that focuses on achieving internal balance. TCM practitioners use methods such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and massage to restore the flow of Qi or vital energy (pronounced ‘chee’) and balance to the body. Chinese Medicine seeks to find the root of the problem and treats imbalances from there. TCM views health as a state of harmony and balance between mind, body and spirit.
Acupuncture is a branch of Chinese Medicine that involves inserting fine needles through the skin at specific points to treat various health problems. Acupressure uses the same theory and points as acupuncture, but uses pressure for therapeutic benefit instead of needles and can be practiced by an individual in the comfort of their own home.
The classic Eastern explanation for how acupuncture works is that channels of energy or Qi run in regular patterns through the body and over it’s surface. These channels or meridians are like rivers flowing through the body to nourish the tissues and organs. Along these channels are various points each associated with a different part of the body and each has a specific function. An obstruction or blockage in the movement of Qi or energy creates imbalance and/or pain in the body and can lead to dis-ease. By applying pressure to the acupuncture points on a regular basis you can help balance and strengthen your body, increasing your vitality, refresh yourself when you’re tired, boost your immune system, reduce stress and feel better!
Helpful points:
Pericardium 6 – For nausea, Insomnia, Anxiety
- Located on the inside of the forearm, three finer widths directly above the wrist in the middle of the arm.
- Apply pressure downwards and in a small circular motion twenty times
Liver 3 – to help smooth emotions, calm irritability and reduce anxiety
- Located in the web between the big and second toe approximately 1-1.5 inches up from the start of the web. A tender spot should be felt.
- Massage and hold for 30-60 seconds and repeat
Large Intestine 4 – For pain (headaches, toothache, abdominal pain, etc.), use with Liver 3 to help balance the emotions, reduce stress and calm the mind
- Located between the thumb and index finger in the high point in the web. A very tender spot should be felt.
- Note: do not use if you are pregnant
Kidney-27 - For energy and mental clarity
- Place your fingers on your collarbone, slide them inward toward the center and find the bumps where they stop. Drop about an inch and slightly outward. Most people have a slight indent here that their fingers will naturally dip into.
- Tap and massage the points firmly while breathing deeply. Continue for about 20 seconds.
- On the outside of the leg, approximately four finger widths below the bone that protrudes just below the knee. Massage or knead it twenty times.
Note: Do not be too concerned with finding the precise location of each point. If you use several fingers to tap or massage in the vicinity described, you will hit the right spot
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