Acupuncture Points Mentioned in this Article
Do you ever feel discomfort in your stomach, back, or throat? Are you looking for natural remedies to improve these conditions? Look no further! Chinese Medicine philosophy believes that acupressure points on the hands can help alleviate these issues and promote overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the key pressure points on the hands and their benefits according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Let's dive in and discover the wonders of hand acupressure!
Hand Acupuncture Points for Stomach, Back, and Throat: Inner Pass, Nei Guan 內關
One of the most essential acupressure points on the hands is Nei Guan, also known as "Inner Gate" in Chinese (內關). Located on the forearm, this point is easy to find. Simply bend your wrist with your palm facing up and touch the middle of your forearm near the wrist joint. You'll feel two tendons. Now, move two inches towards the elbow from the wrist crease, which is approximately the width of three fingers. Nei Guan is located between these two tendons on both the left and right arms.
According to Chinese Medicine, stimulating the Nei Guan point can have multiple benefits. It is believed to alleviate digestive discomfort, improve conditions related to the stomach, back, and throat, and even stabilize emotions and regulate blood pressure. Nei Guan is also known to be effective in relieving symptoms of various ailments, including rheumatic pain, neck pain, nausea, motion sickness, insomnia, chest tightness, angina, migraines, stomachache, abdominal bloating and rumbling, colds, female menstrual disorders, and even hand pain and numbness. Additionally, it is claimed to enhance breast size by promoting blood circulation in the chest area.
Hand Acupressure for a Healthy Heart
A healthy heart is essential for overall well-being. Thankfully, Chinese Medicine offers acupressure points on the hands that can support heart health. Let's explore them!
Forearm Point for Heart: Ximen
Ximen (郄門) is a powerful acupressure point primarily used for treating heart-related conditions. By pressing this point, you can potentially alleviate symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, or shortness of breath. In addition to its heart benefits, Ximen is known to be effective for arm numbness and neck sprains. This point has a unique ability to suppress the autonomic nervous system and stabilize the mind.
To locate the Ximen point, follow these simple steps:
- With your palm facing up and your elbow bent, observe a hard tendon appearing in the center of your elbow.
- Draw an imaginary line connecting this tendon to the midpoint of your wrist.
- Approximately five inches away from the wrist, which is about the width of seven fingers, you will find the Ximen point. Remember, there is one on each of the left and right arms.
Fingertip Point for Heart: Lesser Surge, Shaochong 少衝
Shaochong (少衝) is another remarkable acupressure point for maintaining heart health. Known for its brain-awakening and calming effect, it can potentially alleviate symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest tightness, head congestion, dry mouth and tongue, and arm pain.
To locate the Shaochong point, follow these simple steps:
- Find the base of your little finger, close to the side of the ring finger.
- Specifically, it is located at the intersection of the inner side of the little finger's nail and its base.
- You will find one point on each of the left and right hands.
Wrist Pressure Point for Heart Abnormalities: Spirit Gate, Shenmen 神門
Shenmen (神門) is a significant acupressure point that can provide relief for severe heart palpitations or arrhythmias. It is also effective for palpitations caused by anxiety and hysteria. Furthermore, Shenmen can alleviate symptoms such as loss of appetite, angina, low blood pressure, arm numbness and pain, joint pain, eye fatigue, exhaustion, constipation, insomnia, and forgetfulness.
To locate the Shenmen point, follow these simple steps:
- With your palm facing up, examine the wrist crease on the side closest to the little finger.
- Make a light fist and gently bend your wrist.
- Look out for a hard tendon near the joint on the side closest to the little finger. The Shenmen point is located where this tendon intersects with the wrist crease. Remember, there is one point on each of the left and right wrists.
Hand Acupressure for Heat and Heatstroke: Shaoshang 少商
With the summer heat approaching, it's essential to know about acupressure points on the hands that can help alleviate heat-related conditions like heatstroke or heat exhaustion. One such point is Shaoshang (少商).
Shaoshang is a powerful acupressure point with emergency treatment effects for conditions like heatstroke, stroke, and heat exhaustion. It is also said to be effective in treating mental illnesses. Additionally, this point can help alleviate symptoms such as sore throat, cough, and numbness in the hands.
To locate the Shaoshang point, follow these simple steps:
- Focus on the thumb side of your hand, next to the base of the fingernail on the outer side.
- Approximately the size of a grain of rice away from the nail base, you will find the Shaoshang point.
- Remember, there is one point on each of the left and right thumbs.
By stimulating the Shaoshang point, you can potentially find relief from heat-related conditions and promote overall well-being, especially during the hot summer months. Now, let's move on to explore another important acupressure point on the hands.
Acupoint on Hand for Inflammation, Menstrual Pains, and More: Union Valley, Hegu 合谷
Hegu (合谷) is an acupressure point with a broad range of applications, mainly used for treating diseases related to the mouth and facial organs. However, its benefits extend beyond those areas. It is believed to be effective for various symptoms, including headaches, oral inflammation, sore throat, fever, eye fatigue, neuralgia, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Hegu is also useful for treating symptoms related to the nervous system, high and low blood pressure, allergic rhinitis, stomachache, toothache, menstrual pain, colds, and even acne. Additionally, it can help improve eye bags and rough skin.
To locate the Hegu point, follow these simple steps:
- With your palm facing up, focus on the point where your thumb and index finger meet, also known as the "tiger's mouth" or the webbing between them.
- From there, move about an inch and a half towards the back of your hand, slightly wider than the width of your thumb.
- This is where the Hegu point is located. Remember, there is one point on each of the left and right hands. Alternatively, you can find the point by pressing down on the back of your hand using the crease on the inner side of the thumb from the other hand, at the point where the thumb and index finger of that hand meet.
Incorporating acupressure on the Hegu point into your wellness routine can offer relief from various discomforts and help promote a balanced and healthy body.
Simplify Your Acupressure Sessions with Moxa
Enhance your wellness journey and simplify your acupressure sessions with the Moxa Acupressure App. This innovative app provides a wide array of rituals and tailored sessions aimed at rejuvenating your body and elevating your overall well-being. With Moxa, you can effortlessly identify the correct acupressure points, and track your progress, making your wellness routine seamless and enjoyable.
By exploring the features of the Moxa Acupressure App, you can immerse yourself in an immersive digital experience designed to guide you on your acupressure journey. Discover personalized rituals and sessions tailored to address your specific needs and goals. Whether you're seeking relief from menstrual cramps, stress management, or overall balance, Moxa can assist you in finding the ideal acupressure points for your body.
Incorporating the Moxa Acupressure App into your wellness routine simplifies the practice of acupressure, making it more accessible and enjoyable. Embrace technology as a tool to enhance your ancient healing practices and prioritize your overall well-being.
Remember, while acupressure can provide significant benefits, it is essential to prioritize your safety and well-being. The information shared in this article is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have any concerns or questions about a specific medical condition or treatment options, consult with a licensed healthcare provider.
