The History of Acupressure
The healing art known as acupressure has been around for about 5,000 years. The practice is similar to acupuncture, as it involves the use of key trigger points of the body. But acupressure does its healing with precise finger pressure, not needles, on the surface of the skin to stimulate the body's natural ability to heal itself.
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Geography
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Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Although some form of acupressure began in India, as hints of the healing art have been found in ancient Indian texts, the first organized form of acupressure is established as Chinese. Evidence found in Europe comes via the 5,000-year-old iceman --tzi, found in the Alps around the modern border of Italy and Austria. He had tattoos that might be related to acupuncture.
History
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Over 5,000 years ago, the Chinese found that pressing particular points of the body relieve pain. They eventually found other locations that help in areas that were not treated directly. The treatment also influenced how the internal organs functioned.
As the years progressed, surrounding cultures such as India, Japan and Thailand adopted acupressure and put their own stamps on it.
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Benefits
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Among the basic benefits of acupressure are relaxation and stress relief. Some of the benefits of acupressure are based upon Eastern medical beliefs. The body's energy flow, or chi (pronounced "chee"), is restored with acupressure treatments.
Other benefits include:
Reduced blood pressure;
Increased mental and spiritual awareness;
Treatment of chronic disorders and illnesses (nausea, headaches);
Helps reduce labor pains (see warning below);
Increased energy;
Maintains regular menstrual patterns.
Expert Insight
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According to a study published by the "British Medical Journal," acupressure is more effective in relieving back pain than physical therapy. In a 2000 study published in "Oncology," scientists found that subjects saw significant relief in their nausea caused by chemotherapy.
Warnings
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Although many people are happy with the results of acupressure treatments, it does not fully replace all medical needs. If you are seriously injured or have persistent symptoms, seek conventional medical treatment.
There are certain times when acupressure is not appropriate. They include:
Twenty minutes before, or within 20 minutes after exercise;
If pregnant, particularly after the first three months;
If you suffer from a heart condition;
If the area in question is a mole, wart, varicose vein or any break or mark on the skin.
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References
- Photo Credit photo: Wellcome Collection
