How to Find Acupressure Points

Acupressure is an ancient Chinese healing art, which uses the acupuncture and pressure techniques. It belongs to the alternative healing technique, where physical pressure is applied to different points in different parts of the body. Pressure is applied on the points either using the fingers or the elbow. This methodology is used for treating a number of ailments as well as for inducing labor. It is important not to confuse this technique with the massage techniques all around the world. The base of this alternative healing technique lies in the Chinese belief, that there is life force, which moves through the body, which has the power to heal the body and balance the imbalance by manipulating the energy.

There are different pressure points, which are located in different parts of the body. The most prominent points are located in the fingers, hands, elbows, wrist, feet, knees, etc. When the respective points are pressed, it helps in activating the body's natural self curative abilities. The muscular tension is released, when the points are pressed and there is increased blood circulation to the said body part. It is important to note that acupressure and acupuncture use the same points to heal the body. Acupressure is the older of the two and took a backseat after the advanced acupuncture technique came into being. However, the results of both the methods are more or less the same. This brings us to the question, how to locate the pressure points. The acupressure points chart will prove to be great help to find the right pressure points located on the body.

How to Find Pressure Points on the Body

For most of us finding the acupressure point locations is a big task in itself. If we have the accurate chart with the location of the pressure points and the benefits of the said points would it not be an immense help? You do not have to look any further. The chart is right here.

Pressure Point Name	Location of the Pressure Point
Pressure Point for Headache
Li4	The location of this pressure point is between the index finger and the thumb. To be more precise it is located above the carpal joint in the webbing between the index finger and the thumb. This pressure point should be massaged such that the massage strokes should move in the direction of the wrist.
GB20	This pressure point is located at the backside of the head. To locate the pressure point, roll your fingers at the back of your head towards the neck. This pressure point is located exactly, where you encounter the first depression. Massage this pressure point using your index and middle finger in circular motion.
CO4	The location of this pressure point is between the first and second metacarpal bones. In other words the webbing of the thumb and the index finger. Massage the point in circular motion for relief from headache.
Pressure Point for Anxiety
P6	Inside of the wrist is the exact location of this pressure point. To locate the pressure point extend your hand in front of you, such that the palm faces the ceiling. Leaving the thumb and little finger, place the other three fingers on the crease of the wrist. Now place the thumb next to the index finger exactly between the tendon. The point has to be massaged in circular motion.
BL2	This pressure point is also known as the third eye. The location of this pressure point is between the eyebrows right above the bridge of the nose. Gently apply pressure on this pressure point and be relieved of stress and anxiety.
K1	The 'yongquan' pressure point is located at the base of the foot. To be more precise, the point is located in the middle of the sole exactly behind the ball of the foot. Use your thumb to massage the pressure point and be relived of anxiety.
Pressure Point for Weight Loss
Sp6	This acupressure point is located inside the leg, exactly above the ankle bone. To locate the point, from the center of the ankle bone, move about four finger widths up towards the knee. The point is just little off the bone. This point will help in strengthening the digestive system. A word of caution is that this pressure point should not be used by pregnant women, unless they are about to go into labor.
St36	The exact location of this point is about four finger width below the border of the kneecap but one finger width off the shin bone to the outer side of the leg. To know, if you have found the correct point, see if the muscle under your hand moves. It has a positive effect on the digestive system and helps in activating metabolism.
Li11	This acupressure point is located on the elbow. To find the point, extend your hand straight in front of you, now bend your hand. The point is located on the elbow crease, which is outside. Press the point to regulate intestinal activity and clearing excess heat.
Pressure Point to Induce Labor
Hoku	This is among the easiest points to find. The point is located exactly at the juncture of the thumb and index finger bones. This pressure point helps not only to induce labor, but it can also be used for easing labor pain and ease childbirth.
BL60	The location of this pressure point is between the Achilles tendon and the ankle bone. It is best to make use of this point, when the baby has not dropped into the pelvis the way it should be. Massage the area for some time, so that the baby is dropped into the pelvis and labor is triggered.
Sp6	This pressure point is located around the ankle joint. To locate the pressure point from the center of the ankle bone, move about four finger widths up towards the knee. The point is just little off the bone. When pressure is applied on this pressure point, it will help to ripen the cervix. In case weaker contractions have started, applying pressure on this point will help to strengthen the contractions.

Before you make use of any of the pressure point, it is important to seek advice from your health care professional. There are certain pressure points, which are not recommended for certain conditions. For example, the Sp6 acupressure point should not be used by pregnant women, unless their labor is due. At the same time, if you notice any uneasiness, after you massage the pressure points, stop massaging the pressure points immediately.

Disclaimer: This write-up should be used for informational purposes only. It should not be taken as medical advice. Seek medical advice for exact remedies.