Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In India alone, it is estimated that 7.3% of the population suffers from some form of anxiety disorder. While seeking professional help is important for managing anxiety, there are also alternative methods that can provide some relief. One such method is acupressure, which involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to alleviate symptoms. There are 6 pressure points that can help with anxiety relief so let’s explore them:
- The Third Eye Point
The Third Eye Point, also known as GV 24.5, is located between the eyebrows, in the indentation where the bridge of the nose meets the forehead. This point is believed to help calm the mind and relieve tension. To stimulate this point, use your index and middle fingers to apply firm pressure for 1-2 minutes while taking slow, deep breaths. This can also help with headaches and insomnia, which are often associated with anxiety.Anxiety Relief
- The Heavenly Gate Point
The Heavenly Gate Point, also known as SI 17, is located on the back of the neck, just below the base of the skull. This point is believed to help release tension and promote relaxation. To stimulate this point, use your thumbs to apply firm pressure for 1-2 minutes while taking slow, deep breaths. This can also help with neck and shoulder pain, which are common physical symptoms of anxiety.
- The Inner Gate Point
The Inner Gate Point, also known as P 6, is located on the inner forearm, about three finger widths from the wrist crease. This point is believed to help calm the mind and promote a sense of well-being. To stimulate this point, use your thumb to apply firm pressure for 1-2 minutes while taking slow, deep breaths. This can also help with nausea, which is a common symptom of anxiety.
- The Great Surge Point
The Great Surge Point, also known as LV 3, is located on the top of the foot, in the webbing between the big toe and the second toe. This point is believed to help release tension and promote relaxation. To stimulate this point, use your index and middle fingers to apply firm pressure for 1-2 minutes while taking slow, deep breaths. This can also help with digestive issues, which are often associated with anxiety.
- The Sea of Tranquility Point
The Sea of Tranquility Point, also known as CV 17, is located in the center of the chest, between the nipples. This point is believed to help calm the mind and promote a sense of peace. To stimulate this point, use your index and middle fingers to apply firm pressure for 1-2 minutes while taking slow, deep breaths. This can also help with chest tightness, which is a common physical symptom of anxiety.
- The Union Valley Point
The Union Valley Point, also known as LI 4, is located in the webbing between the thumb and index finger. This point is believed to help release tension and promote relaxation. To stimulate this point, use your thumb and index finger to apply firm pressure for 1-2 minutes while taking slow, deep breaths. This can also help with headaches and muscle tension, which are often associated with anxiety.
While acupressure can provide temporary relief for anxiety symptoms, it is important to note that it is not a substitute for professional treatment. If you are experiencing severe anxiety symptoms that impact your daily life, it is important to seek help from a healthcare or mental health care professional. Acupressure can be used as a complementary therapy to help manage symptoms, but it should not be used as a sole treatment method.
In addition to acupressure, there are other self-care practices that can help with anxiety relief. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep are all important for maintaining overall mental well-being. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can also help to reduce anxiety symptoms.
In conclusion, acupressure can be a useful tool for managing anxiety symptoms, but it should be used in conjunction with professional treatment and other self-care practices. By stimulating specific pressure points, acupressure can help to release tension, promote relaxation, and provide a sense of calm. So the next time you are feeling anxious, try using these 6 pressure points to help alleviate your symptoms and find some relief.
