Acupressure is an Asian bodywork therapy that works on the same principles as acupuncture, except that pressure replaces the use of needles. Practitioners apply pressure to points (acupoints) along energy lines called meridians.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, life energy (chi or qi) flows through the meridians. In a healthy person, the energy flows freely, while blocked energy leads to illness.
Pressing acupoints may stimulate the body's natural self-healing abilities by reducing tension, increasing circulation, and helping your body relax. Research suggests that stimulation of acupoints increases release of endorphins.
This pressure on acupoints can potentially help many problems, including headaches, back problems, and menstrual cramping, and may also boost the immune system. For pregnant women, studies suggest that maternity acupressure can relieve some of the unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy and reduce pain during labor.
The most well-known type of acupressure is shiatsu, which originated in Japan. Shaitsu can be quite vigorous, with firm pressure applied to each point for only three to five seconds. In contrast, in Jin Shin, the practitioner gently holds each point for a minute or more. Tuina Chinese massage also incorporates the use of acupressure points, along with other massage techniques.
