Origins of Acupressure

Acupressure is an ancient form of healing. It has been used for centuries for pain relief. Acupressure is a form of massage applied to the muscles of the body. It is based on acupuncture principles, without the use of needles. Practitioners of acupressure use it as a complementary or primary therapy for relief of headache, back pain, anxiety and tension and as a non-invasive and gentle means to boost immunity. Acupressure is believed to restore balance to the body, improving the flow of Chi (energy). When energy is restored to the body through acupressure, healing can occur naturally.

History

Acupressure was used in China as early as 2000 BC. It is a form of acupuncture, without the use of needles. Acupressure used the fingers or elbows to apply pressure to specific points in the body. One of the most popular Western application involves the use of acupressure to treat nausea by applying pressure to the wrist. Today acupressure is widely used throughout Asia and China to promote relaxation and for disease prevention. The use of acupressure is gaining in popularity in Western medicine as well as in Europe. Individuals can learn acupressure for self-help through books and DVDs. Acupressure is professionally practiced through certification from an accredited school.

Potential

Studies show the benefits of acupressure. Self- acupressure has been shown to increase alertness, keeping student attentive during long classes. According to researcher Richard E. Harris, PhD, of the University of Michigan Health System's Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, "Acupressure can change alertness in people who are in classroom settings for a full day--which could be very good news for students who have trouble staying alert at school." The students performed acupressure on themselves by lightly tapping, and massaging between the eyebrows, behind the earlobes, on the front of the wrists, lower legs just above the ankles, and on the tops of their feet. The results showed that the students who practiced acupressure for stimulation were more alert in comparison to those who did use acupressure during class. Another study, performed on patients with back pain showed that patients obtained relief up to six months with traditional Chinese acupressure, when compared to regular physical therapy.

Types

There are many variations of acupressure. The following are just a few examples: Shiatsu is practiced by the Japanese, and is a form of acupressure. Shi means pressure, and atsu means finger. Tui Na is Chinese acupressure technique that uses the principles of acupuncture. Tui Na was likely practiced before the acupuncture. Practitioners provide massage to the hands and spine to free energy and promote Chi. Tui Na means "pushing and pulling." Ohashiatsu incorporates the principles of Shiatsu, and encompasses stretching to balance the body. It was developed in 1974. Watsu is a form of Shiatsu practiced in a warm pool to promote relaxation. It is also known as aquatic Shiatsu. Watsu was developed 30 years ago. Throughout the years, acupuncture techniques have evolved to meet the needs of various cultures.

Theories/Speculation

Ancient Asian health philosophies believe that disease is the result of blocked, insufficient, or too much energy in the body. Acupressure balances the energy and restores flow by using pressure from the finger, hand or elbow. Specific meridian points are used that correlate with the flow of body energy.

Warning

Acupressure is safe and non-invasive. It should be learned before it is practiced for self-healing. Too much pressure applied during therapy can result in injury and bruising. Experienced therapists are best suited for delivering acupressure therapy .

Resources

• Acupressure, Shiatsu and other Asian bodywork information