Acupressure is an ancient Chinese treatment method that focuses on target points around the body, to which pressure is to be applied. In simpler terms, acupressure is similar to acupuncture with the use of needles in the latter being the difference between the two.
Acupressure has been used for centuries to treat a myriad of illnesses, relax the body, and provide relief for aches and pains. An interesting discovery has also found acupressure to be highly beneficial in boosting metabolism and helping people stay fit and active.
How Does Acupressure Work?
Acupressure aims to utilize the wisdom gathered from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to heal the body in many ways.
Both acupuncture and acupressure utilize various points that run along 12 meridians in the body. These are considered to be energy pathways that carry ‘qi’ or ‘chi’, which are terms used to describe ‘life energy’. The belief among people is that illness is caused and propagated by certain blockages in the ‘qi’, which doesn’t allow the energy to flow in the body. Acupressure aims to restore the ‘qi’ by using pressure to unblock these energy pathways and restore its flow.
The body type of a person is determined by their metabolic rate. A person with a high metabolic rate is capable of burning fat and calories faster, even when the body is at rest. On the other hand, a low metabolic rate does not utilize the calories for energy and it is deposited as fat in the body. Research suggests that acupressure stimulates the energy flow in the body to improve metabolism, and thereby aiding weight loss.
Traditional Chinese Medicine encourages weight loss by allowing the excess heat and moisture within the body to be expelled and also supporting the organs responsible for carrying out smooth digestion. Here, heat and moisture are the words used to describe the imbalance of energy and not the physical state of the body. People who specialize in acupressure use these ancient techniques to balance energy and allow the body to burn fat naturally and effectively.
Different Points Of Acupressure
Acupressure requires the application of pressure across different points in the body to balance out the flow of energy. These points includes:
1. Ear Point
The points around the ear are known as SI19, TW21, and GB2 in acupressure. These points work together to improve energy flow in order to control appetite and hunger, as well as improve digestion in the body. The ear point holds three or more pressure points in one area, making it very effective.
Start off by placing your thumb directly in front of the triangular flap at the front of the ear. You can also find the ear point by placing the finger against the jaw and opening and closing the mouth to find the area where most movement occurs. It is advisable to use the thumb as it covers a majority of the surface area. Once located, apply medium to high pressure on the ear point for three minutes continuously.
2. Upper Lip
The acupressure point called GV26 is located in between the upper lip and the nose. You can locate this point by following the natural crease or depression on the upper lip, called the philtrum. Once located, apply medium pressure to this area for five minutes at once, and repeat twice a day. Use the thumb point for better impact. The upper lip point is also known to curb appetite and help the body control hunger.
3. Inner Elbow
The inner elbow point is called the LI11 and can be found on the inner side of the elbow crease, close to the outer part of the elbow. This point is closely associated with the body’s digestion process. Use the thumb point to apply pressure for one full minute, every single day. Applying pressure to the inner elbow will stimulate the function of the intestine and will relieve the excess heat and moisture from the body and rebalance the energy to improve digestive activities.
Other points
Besides these three main points, the other pressure points around the body are located at – the knee, below the belly button, near the ankles, and close to the ribs.
HealthifyMe Suggestion
Acupressure is often done by an acupuncturist. You can also do acupressure on yourself. It is best to learn proper technique from an acupuncturist. Accupressure at home can be done by applying pressure to a specific point using a thumb, finger, or knuckle. Increase the pressure for about 30 seconds. Then hold it steady for 30 seconds to two minutes. Next, gradually decrease the pressure for 30 seconds. Repeat three to five times.
There are many Accupressure tools available online. These are designed to improve circulation and reduce muscle pain. While they’re available for home use, you may want to talk to a qualified acupuncturist before using an acupressure device like mats or wristbands on yourself.
Summary
Acupressure is an ancient Chinese wellness treatment that has no side effects and is completely safe to incorporate into your daily routine. While some people may notice significant weight loss, the advantages to others might be indirect in the form of improved gut health, stress relief, and controlled appetite.
Acupressure should be combined with a healthy diet and exercise regimen to attain its best benefits. This is achieved by avoiding the consumption of processed foods and refined carbohydrates, eating a high-protein diet and avoiding the consumption of alcohol and sugary drinks.Remember to stay active and exercise regularly to keep the muscles, joints, and bones functioning in a healthy manner.
Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is just to disperse knowledge and raise awareness. It does not intend to replace medical advice from professionals. For further information please contact our certified nutritionists Here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How does acupressure help with weight loss?
A. Acupressure stimulates specific body points associated with the digestive system, endocrine system, and nervous system. Applying pressure to these points helps regulate appetite, increase metabolism, and reduce stress. All these factors have a direct impact on body weight management.
Q. How do you perform acupressure for weight loss?
A. The ear point and lip point helps to control appetite and hunger, as well as improve digestion in the body. For ear point start off by placing your thumb directly in front of the triangular flap at the front of the ear. Once located, you will need to apply medium to high pressure on the ear point for three minutes continuously. For lip point follow the natural crease or depression on the upper lip, called the philtrum. Once located, apply medium pressure to this area for five minutes at once, and repeat twice a day.
Q. How long does it take for acupressure to work for weight loss?
A. The effects of acupressure for weight loss may depend on various factors such lifestyle, eating habits and physical activity along with the frequency of acupressure sessions. It is important to be patient and consistent with acupressure sessions along with a high protein balanced diet and a good exercise regime.
Q. Are there any side effects of acupressure for weight loss?
A. Acupressure is generally safe and does not have any side effects when performed correctly. However, some people may experience mild side effects, such as soreness, bruising, or redness at the site of pressure. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, it is advisable to stop the acupressure sessions and consult a medical specialist.
Q. Can acupressure be used to target specific areas of the body for weight loss?
A. No, spot reduction is an unhealthy goal and is not possible through acupressure. Acupressure can help regulate appetite, boost metabolism, and reduce stress, which can lead to overall weight loss.
Reference Sources
- Anatomical Evidence of Acupuncture Meridians in the Human Extracellular Matrix: Results from a Macroscopic and Microscopic Interdisciplinary Multicentre Study on Human Corpses: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6448339/
- Mechanism of Action of Acupuncture in Obesity: A Perspective From the Hypothalamus: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8050351/
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