Anxiety is a relative state of worry and fear. The feeling can be paralyzing for some, rendering them incapable of being productive, which can be very frustrating. However, anxiety does respond well to certain treatments. With the right treatments, an individual may be able to obtain control over their anxiety. An ancient Chinese healing art called "acupressure" is one tool you can use to help manage sympotms of anxiety. Acupressure translates to "finger pressure". It involves the use of pressure on the body in particular spots known as acupressure points or "acupoints". The pressure is applied to the same points that acupuncture is done, however it does not require the use of a needle. Acupressure has many benefits; it can help you get restful sleep, relieve stress and pain, and treat many other health worries.

The Principles of Acupressure

Acupressure is a form of massage which can be used in dealing with anxiety symptoms. It is an ancient Chinese form of massage that involves putting pressure on certain points on the body to treat ailments. Exerting pressure on these points can help eliminate muscle tension and promote blood circulation. In chinese medicine theories, it stimulates the body to maintain a consistent energy flow or Qi (pronounced "chi").

Acupressure is a great alternative for those who are hesitant to receive acupuncture due to fear of needling. It can also be a way to continue getting benefit from your acupuncture session, by learning to perform the acupressure points on yourself at home. Your acupuncture provider can teach you how to perform acupressure on yourself including where to press, how long to hold, and what the benefits are.

Acupressure for Anxiety

Acupressure can help with relaxation of muscle fibers and joints. Acupressure can work relatively well in managing anxiety symptoms. It is an alternative medicine used to complement other treatments that relieve anxiety such as counseling and medication. There are several acupoints on the body that can be targeted to help manage anxiety. Among the acupoints are areas around the face and hands. The type of anxiety a person feels will determine the right pressure points to focus on. Your acupuncture provider can teach you which points will help benefit you the most.

There are also other types of points you can target in the body called trigger points. These are the tight muscle points a therapist targets when treating a patient. Trigger points are those that are linked to the points of the body feeling pain. Sometimes, pressure is needed at some of these points to clear up restrictions and help ensure a healthy, balanced flexbility through all parts of the body.

Acupressure can be self-administered, provided you know the right pressure point to focus on. One of the points that work well in relieving anxiety is located on your forehead at the midpoint between your eyebrows. You can find a comfortable position to sit down, then you put your forefingers or thumbs in between your eyebrows and then gently apply pressure on this point for a few minutes. This should not cause any discomfort. Do this several times as needed for the symptoms to reduce. You can combine this pressure with some deep breathing techniques for extra benefit.

 Some of the other benefits of acupressure are:

1. Improves your psychological well-being: There are acupressure points that promote relaxation which may help to reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety.

2. Aids healing: When ill, your body is not at its optimal performance. Acupressure can help promote blood circulation and enhance the body’s immune response, aiding healing. If you are ill, acupressure may accelerate your healing process.

3. Makes you calmer: The more at ease you are, the less likely it is for you to be overwhelmed with worry and fear. There are acupressure points that promote a calm state.

4. Relieves pain: Acupressure helps improve the circulation of blood to certain areas of the body. This helps to relieve pain. There are also effects such as endorphin or hormone release that contribute to decreasing pain.

Side Effects and Safety

Generally speaking, acupressure is very safe. You just have to find a licensed and certified acupuncture practitioner. You may feel a bit sore, light-headed, or (in rare cases) bruised after an acupressure session, however it should not cause any sort of physical pain. If you are pregnant, make sure you consult with your doctor before booking an acupressure treatment. Note that pressure should be gentle in sensitive areas. Acupressure should not be done to exposed wounds, bruises, swollen veins, or any other sensitive body parts.

Conclusion

Research on acupressure suggests that it can help manage anxiety. Some researchers say that the pressure may free up natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body called endorphins. So far, there has not been any evidence that acupressure interferes with other medical procedures. It is therefore a safe option to use alongside medication and other therapies.