How to Use Leg Massage for Insomnia
Having trouble falling asleep or getting back to sleep? Here's an acupressure technique you can perform on yourself while you're lying in bed, using your feet. You don't even have to sit up, and it won't disturb your spouse. Applying pressure to the Spleen 6 point helps eliminate stress while you're awake, too.
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Instructions
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How to Use Leg Massage for Insomnia
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1
Locate the "Spleen 6" point. From the inside ankle bone, trace upwards along the inside edge of the tibia (the large shin bone). About four finger-widths above the ankle bone, on the inside of the calf, there will be a spot that is especially tender.
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2
Stretch your left leg out straight and bend your right leg at the knee.
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3
Use your right heel to press on the Spleen 6 point on your left leg.
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4
Slide your right heel down to the inside ankle bone and back up again, hitting the Spleen 6 point as you pass by. Use as much pressure as you can comfortably tolerate. After a few minutes of pressure, the tenderness should subside.
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5
Repeat by stretching out your right leg and using your left heel to massage the right leg's Spleen 6 point. When the tension has been released from both legs, you should easily fall asleep.
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Tips & Warnings
Gently massage this point on your children's legs, using your thumbs, when you tuck them in at night. When they're old enough, teach them to use this technique when they have trouble falling asleep.
Use massage oil or cream to make your skin more comfortable, if desired.
Use an acupuncture chart to help locate the point, if necessary.
Never use acupressure on pregnant women.
Always use a gentle touch at first when using acupressure on another person.
