Acupoint Guide

Tag: acupressure basics

  • The Effects of Acupressure for Depression and 3 Acupoints Beginners Should Know





    Self-Acupressure Guide for Relief from Sadness | Start with These 3 Points if You’re a Beginner


    Self-Acupressure Guide for Relief from Sadness — Start with These 3 Points if You’re a Beginner

    One-Line Summary: When you’re feeling down, start with just one finger. Without any complicated techniques, pressing just three points—your foot, crown of your head, and wrist—can make your mood feel noticeably lighter.

    Why Acupressure Helps with Sadness

    In traditional Chinese medicine, sadness is understood to arise from an imbalance in the body’s qi and blood circulation. When you stimulate specific acupoints, the blocked energy is released, allowing both mind and body to relax. In clinical practice, people who practice acupressure consistently report improved sleep quality after about 3 weeks, and reduced emotional fluctuations after 4 weeks.

    However, it’s important to understand that acupressure is a complementary tool. If you suspect depression, you must consult a psychiatrist or psychotherapist. Acupressure is simply a tool to support that process.

    4 Things to Check Before You Start

    Checklist Item Description
    Pain Level You should not feel pain. A mild, dull sensation that makes you think “ah, there it is” is correct. If you feel sharp pain, immediately ease off the pressure.
    Breathing Don’t hold your breath. Slowly inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth while pressing—this makes the effect much better.
    Preparation Wash your hands thoroughly and trim your nails short. Cleanliness and safety are essential.
    Posture Whether you’re standing, sitting, or lying down doesn’t matter. Whatever position feels comfortable for you is the best.

    3 Essential Acupoints for Beginners

    First: Taichong (LR3) — The Emotional Regulation Point on Your Foot

    Location: On the top of your foot, between your big toe and the second toe, in the hollow area above where the two toe bones meet.

    How to Find It: Remove your shoe and gently press that area with your finger. You’ll feel a slight hollow. You don’t need to be exactly precise—being in the general area is enough.

    How to Press: Using the tip of your thumb, press slowly. Hold for 3 seconds, then release for 2 seconds, and repeat. Angling slightly toward your toes makes it more effective. Do 10 times per foot, taking about 2 minutes total.

    Best Times to Use: When your mood feels heavy while preparing for work in the morning | After work stress when you get home | When you have too many thoughts racing before bed at night

    💡 Since your feet are always accessible, this is the acupoint beginners can practice most frequently.

    Second: Baihui (GV20) — The Mind-Settling Point at the Crown of Your Head

    Location: At the very center of the crown of your head. It’s where the imaginary line connecting the highest points of both ears meets the centerline that runs from your nose through the crown to the back of your head.

    How to Find It: When you touch it with your finger, you’ll feel a slight depression. You’ve found the center of your head. Looking in a mirror while thinking about it makes it easier to find.

    How to Press: Using your middle or ring finger, gently press from above downward. Rather than pressing hard, gently tap and massage your crown as if you’re patting it lightly. Press for 5 seconds, repeat 10 times, taking about 1 minute total.

    Best Times to Use: When your thoughts feel tangled all day | When your head feels unclear or foggy | When you find yourself sighing frequently at night | When you want to take time to calm your mind in a meditative way

    💡 Baihui is where all the body’s yang energy gathers, making it especially effective for mental clarity.

    Third: Shenmen (HT7) — The Heart-Calming Point on Your Wrist

    Location: On the inner side of your wrist crease, in the hollow area right next to the prominent tendon on the pinky finger side.

    How to Find It: Extend your arm with your palm facing up. Find the prominent tendon in the center of the inner forearm. Shenmen is in the hollow right next to it. You can easily find it by pressing with the tip of your thumb.

    How to Press: Using your opposite thumb, slowly press as if moving toward your forearm. Hold for 3 seconds, then release for 2 seconds, and repeat. Do 10 times per arm, taking about 2 minutes total.

    Best Times to Use: When you can’t fall asleep | When you feel anxious | When you experience a sudden jolt of anxiety in your chest | When your emotions fluctuate significantly

    💡 The wrist is always exposed, so this is the most practical acupoint—you can stimulate it discreetly anywhere, anytime.

    A 3-Minute Daily Routine for Beginners

    Invest just 3 minutes at the same time every day. Consistency is the best medicine.

    Time Acupoint Method
    1 minute Taichong (LR3) 30 seconds on each foot. You can do this while lying in bed.
    2 minutes Baihui (GV20) About 1 minute of gentle tapping massage. You don’t need to press deeply.
    3 minutes Shenmen (HT7) 30 seconds on each wrist. You can do this sitting down or lying in bed.

    Recommended Times:

    • Morning: Starting right after you wake up while still in bed sets a positive mood for the entire day.
    • Evening: Repeating 30 minutes before bed can calm your mind and improve sleep quality.
    • Emergency Situation: When you feel stressed or anxious, focusing just on Shenmen (HT7) can provide quick stabilization.

    5 Tips to Enhance Results

    1. Set a regular time. Doing it at the same time each day is effective for aligning your body’s rhythm. Your brain learns that “this time is for settling the mind.”
    2. Focus completely. It’s important to feel where your finger is pressing. Put your phone down and concentrate solely on the acupressure—this doubles the effectiveness.
    3. Use warm hands. Warm hands promote blood circulation better than cold ones. If needed, rub your hands together to warm them before starting.
    4. Be consistent for 3 weeks. It takes a minimum of 3 weeks of consistent practice to feel your body’s changes. Don’t expect dramatic results from the start.
    5. Drink water after evening acupressure. Drinking a cup of warm water after acupressure promotes blood circulation and aids metabolism.

    3 Common Mistakes Beginners Make

    ❌ Mistake 1: Thinking “The Harder, The Better”

    Pressing hard enough to cause pain is wrong. Strong pressure actually tenses your body and interferes with sadness relief. The right level is a dull sensation that feels good—that’s the answer. If you feel pain, immediately ease off.

    ❌ Mistake 2: “Once a Day, Get It Done Quickly”

    Acupressure is not a one-time treatment. The key is consistency—doing it at the same time morning and evening is the best medicine. While obsessing isn’t healthy, try to do it at least once, whether morning or evening.

    ❌ Mistake 3: “Giving Up After 1–2 Weeks”

    Beginners usually quit after about 2 weeks, thinking it’s not working. Your body needs a minimum of 3 weeks, usually 4 weeks, to detect changes and respond. Traditional Chinese medicine says “after consistently practicing for 3 months, you’ll notice clear changes.”

    Other Methods to Use with Acupressure

    Use acupressure as your foundation, and these complementary methods will enhance its effectiveness.

    • Psychiatric care/psychotherapy: Essential if you suspect depression. Acupressure is a supplementary tool.
    • Meditation or diaphragmatic breathing: 5 minutes of meditation after acupressure deepens mental calm.
    • Warm bath: Soaking in warm water for about 15 minutes before bed effectively relieves nervous tension.
    • Light walk: A 10-minute walk in sunlight also helps relieve sadness.

    ⚠️ Important: Please consult a professional in the following cases.

    • When sadness persists for 2 weeks or more
    • When you have thoughts of self-harm or extreme ideation
    • When sadness is severe enough to prevent daily functioning
    • When you’re taking medication (consult first before starting acupressure)
    Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or could be pregnant, consult with a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing acupressure.
    Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult a healthcare professional.

    “`

  • Complete Guide to Acupressure for Nausea — Beginners Feel Relief in 5 Minutes

    Complete Guide to Acupressure for Nausea — Beginners Feel Relief in 5 Minutes







    Self-Acupressure for Nausea — 3 Essential Acupoints Beginners Must Know

    Key Takeaway: When nausea occurs, pressing just 3 points—your wrist, knee, and abdomen—can provide relief. Anyone can do this right now without any special technique.

    When Can Acupressure Help with Nausea?

    From 15 years of clinical practice, I’ve seen a clear distinction between cases where acupressure is effective and when it’s not.

    Nausea that responds well to acupressure: Cases caused by stress, overeating, digestive discomfort, or fatigue. You can feel improvement within 30 minutes to 1 hour after acupressure.

    When you need a doctor’s visit: Nausea accompanied by high fever, symptoms lasting more than 3 days, dehydration from vomiting, or severe abdominal pain. In these cases, acupressure is only a supportive measure.

    4 Critical Points to Check Before Starting Acupressure

    Checklist Item Correct Method Common Mistake
    Pressure Intensity Gentle, warm pressure at a level that makes you think “yes, that’s the spot” Pressing so hard it causes pain
    Breathing Breathe in slowly through your nose, exhale through your mouth Holding your breath or breathing too quickly
    Location Confirmation Repeat locating the exact acupoint 2-3 times to verify Finding it once and not double-checking
    Timing Practice when you’re neither fasting nor immediately after eating Doing it anytime without regard to meals

    The 3 Most Effective Acupoints for Nausea

    Acupoint 1: Neiguan (PC6) — Inner Wrist

    Exact Location: This acupoint is the easiest to find and produces fast results.

    1. Hold your hand open with your palm facing upward.
    2. Starting from the wrist crease (toward the elbow), move up by two finger widths.
    3. The space between the two tendons in the center of your inner wrist is Neiguan.

    How to Press: Use your opposite thumb to press for 3-5 seconds, rest for 1-2 seconds, and repeat. Practice for a total of 1 minute while taking deep breaths. You must press both wrists.

    When It’s Most Effective: This acupoint works fastest for sudden nausea, nausea caused by anxiety, and motion sickness. In clinical practice, symptom improvement is typically observed within 3-5 minutes.

    Acupoint 2: Zusanli (ST36) — Below the Knee

    Exact Location: The area below the knee is an important acupoint that affects the entire digestive system.

    1. Sit with your knee slightly bent.
    2. From the outer indentation of the knee (lateral epicondyle), move down by three finger widths.
    3. The small indentation on the outer front of the shin bone is Zusanli.

    How to Press: Slowly press and release repeatedly using your thumb. It’s more effective to press as you exhale. Practice for 1 minute on each leg, for a total of 2 minutes.

    When It’s Most Effective: This acupoint is effective when nausea is accompanied by poor digestion, abdominal bloating, or when fatigue causes nausea. Chronic digestive discomfort can be improved by pressing this acupoint daily.

    Acupoint 3: Zhongwan (CV12) — Center of the Abdomen

    Exact Location: The center of the abdomen is the hub of the entire digestive system.

    1. Lie down comfortably with your body fully extended.
    2. Find the exact midpoint between the bottom of your ribcage and your navel.
    3. It’s located at the center of your abdomen, slightly above the navel.

    How to Press: Bring your four fingers together and massage your entire abdomen in a clockwise circular motion. Practice for 1 minute while taking deep, relaxed breaths. Don’t press hard—think of it as gently warming your abdomen.

    When It’s Most Effective: This is most helpful for stress-induced nausea, severe nausea that prevents eating, and general abdominal discomfort.

    A 3-Minute Beginner Routine

    For beginners, following this sequence prevents confusion.

    1. Neiguan (Wrist) 1 minute: 30 seconds on each wrist. This responds fastest to nausea.
    2. Zusanli (Knee) 1 minute: 30 seconds on each knee below. This supports overall digestive function.
    3. Zhongwan (Abdomen) 1 minute: Finish with clockwise circular massage.

    After Completion: Slowly drink warm water and rest for 10 minutes. It’s important to lie still and observe your body’s changes.

    Practical Tip: The best times are right after waking in the morning or before bed at night. If nausea is acute, you can do it anytime regardless of schedule.

    3 Common Mistakes Beginners Must Avoid

    Mistake 1: Pressing Too Hard

    This is the most common beginner mistake. The thinking “stronger pressure means better results” actually backfires.

    Pressing too hard causes muscles to tense, blocking blood flow. Gentle pressure at the level where you think “yes, that’s the spot” allows your body to relax and respond. The absence of pain actually produces faster results.

    Mistake 2: Pressing Once and Stopping

    “Multiple gentle repetitions” is far more effective than “one hard press and release.”

    The correct approach is to press for 3-5 seconds, rest for 1-2 seconds, and repeat this rhythm for 1 minute. You need to give your body time to respond gradually.

    Mistake 3: Practicing on an Empty Stomach or Right After Eating

    This is especially important when pressing Zhongwan on the abdomen. An empty stomach causes your body to tense, and pressing immediately after a large meal interferes with active digestion.

    The best time is 1-2 hours after eating. Your body can experience the best results when you’re in a relaxed state.

    Practical Advice for Staying Consistent

    When You’ll Notice Results: Nausea symptoms typically improve within 3-10 minutes. However, lasting improvements require at least 2 weeks to 1 month.

    Ideal Frequency: 1-2 times daily, 1-3 minutes each session is the baseline. Ideally, practice once in the morning and once in the evening. Avoid pressing the same acupoint more than 5 times per day.

    How Long to Continue: Even after nausea disappears, continuing for about 1 week helps prevent relapse. If your nausea is stress-related, maintain practice 3-4 times per week until the stressor is resolved.

    Next Steps: Learning Additional Acupoints

    Once you’re comfortable with these 3 acupoints, you can try others. If stress-related nausea is common for you, see [5 Acupressure Points for Stress Relief](/stress-acupressure-points). If you frequently experience motion sickness while traveling, [The Complete Guide to Motion Sickness Prevention](/nausea-prevention-guide) will also help.

    There are many other acupoints that address various symptoms throughout the body. Once you develop a solid foundation, you’ll be able to practice customized acupressure suited to your specific situation.

    When You Must See a Doctor

    • Nausea persisting for more than 3 days
    • Nausea accompanied by high fever (38°C/100.4°F or higher)
    • Inability to keep even water down due to vomiting
    • Severe abdominal pain
    • Blurred consciousness or severe dizziness
    • Symptoms worsening after acupressure

    Acupressure is an excellent supportive tool, but it’s not a cure-all. Listen to your body’s signals, and consult with a healthcare professional when needed.


    Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or could be pregnant, consult with a Korean medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing these techniques.
    Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, consult with a healthcare professional.
  • Dizziness Self-Acupressure Beginner’s Guide — Start with These 3 Points if You’re New

    Dizziness Self-Acupressure Beginner’s Guide — Start with These 3 Points if You’re New

    Quick Summary: If you suffer from dizziness, starting today, just press 3 acupoints with your fingers. That alone is enough.

    Acupressure Isn’t Difficult

    Did you ever think you needed to know anatomy or special hand techniques to learn acupressure? You don’t. Acupressure isn’t complicated. It’s simply “slowly pressing a specific point.” I know many of you deal with dizziness these days and find it bothersome to visit hospitals, or prefer not to rely solely on medication. I was the same way. Let me share the 3 simplest and most effective points I’ve discovered. Starting today, follow along step by step.

    What to Know Before You Start

    First, “pain does not equal mistake.” When you do acupressure, you should feel something like “Ah, this feels refreshing!” Don’t press so hard that you can’t breathe. Slowly use your fingertip to press until you find a point where you think “Hmm, this is a bit tender.” That’s the right spot. Second, you must breathe deeply. Slowly inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. This breathing amplifies the effects of acupressure. Third, wash your hands thoroughly before starting. Your hands are the best tool you have. Finally, find a comfortable position. You can sit in a chair or lie down. Comfort is what matters most.

    Remember These 3 Locations

    First: Zusanli (ST36)

    How to find it: Look just below your knee. From the hollow part below the knee, move down about four finger-widths (approximately 3 cun). Press slightly on the outer side of that area (on the outer edge of the tibia). Both legs have the same point. It may be hard to find at first, but your hands will remember after a few tries.

    How to press: Use your thumb to press slowly. A pressure that makes you think “Ah, this is a bit tender” is correct. Slowly press for 3 seconds, hold for 3 seconds, then slowly release for 3 seconds. Repeat this for about 1 minute. You’ll feel a refreshing sensation along with warmth rather than pain.

    Press it when: It’s good when you wake up feeling dizzy in the morning and your body feels heavy, when you get tired around 3 PM, or when you’re worn out from evening work. This acupoint helps boost your overall vitality.

    Second: Sanyinjiao (SP6)

    How to find it: Find the inner ankle bone (medial malleolus). From that bone, move up about four finger-widths (approximately 3 cun). It’s in the hollow space between the tibia muscle and bone on the inner leg. As you slowly press with your fingers, you’ll find a spot that feels “Hmm, this is a bit tender.” That’s Sanyinjiao.

    How to press: Use your thumb to press, but start with slightly less pressure than you use for Zusanli. If you press too hard, your body will tense up instead. A pressure where you think “Hmm, this feels a bit tender” is best. You can slowly repeat the pressing for about 1 minute. As you press, you’ll feel your leg become slightly heavy or warm.

    Press it when: It’s especially effective when dizziness comes along with chest tightness or digestive discomfort. Try it in the evening lying in bed. It helps promote better sleep.

    Third: Taichong (LR3)

    How to find it: Look at the top of your foot. Follow the bone between your big toe and the next toe upward. Taichong is the hollow part in the middle of the top of the foot, slightly above where the toes meet. When you slowly press with your finger, you’ll feel a spot that makes you say “Ah, here it is!”

    How to press: Use your thumb to press slowly. Rather than pressing straight down, it’s better to press at a slight angle toward the toes. Again, press with the degree of pressure that makes you think “Ah, this feels refreshing.” You can slowly press for about 1 minute. This point releases tension from your head and calms your mind.

    Press it when: It’s effective when dizziness comes with stress or tension. Try it when you have lots of work, when you have things on your mind, or in the evening to release tension.

    Beginner 3-Minute Routine

    The best times are right after waking in the morning and before bed at night. This routine is really simple:

    ① Press Zusanli (1 minute) 1 minute on each leg, 2 minutes total. Start with the right side.

    ② Press Sanyinjiao (1 minute) 30 seconds on each ankle, 1 minute total.

    ③ Press Taichong (1 minute) 30 seconds on each foot, 1 minute total.

    This takes exactly 3-4 minutes. Do this routine every morning and evening. After one week, you’ll feel the difference.

    3 Common Mistakes

    ① Pressing too hard Beginners often think “It’s acupressure, so I should press firmly, right?” Absolutely not. Pressing too hard only tenses your muscles and can actually worsen dizziness. A gentle pressure that feels refreshing is enough.

    ② Rushing through it Pressing too quickly reduces effectiveness. Match your breathing and press slowly, release slowly. That’s the principle of acupressure. It’s better to go slowly and take longer.

    ③ Expecting results in a week Acupressure isn’t magic. You need to do it consistently for at least 2 weeks, and typically 3-4 weeks, before you notice changes. So don’t expect too much and just make it a comfortable habit.

    Moving to the Next Level

    Are you comfortable with those 3 acupoints? Now it’s time to learn 2 more. Hegu (LI4) is the hollow part above the bone between your thumb and index finger, and it’s excellent for overall pain relief. Fengchi (GB20) is the hollow part below where your neck and head meet, and it’s especially effective for head-related dizziness. You can press these two points the same way as the previous 3. Learn at your own pace, step by step.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, you must consult with a healthcare professional or licensed practitioner before using these techniques.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, please consult a healthcare professional.
  • Introduction to Self-Acupressure for Menstrual Cramps — 3 Essential Points for Beginners

    Introduction to Self-Acupressure for Menstrual Cramps — 3 Essential Points for Beginners

    One-line summary: One finger is enough. Knowing just 3 acupressure points will make period pain much more manageable.

    Acupressure is not difficult

    Are you suffering from period pain? Rather than relying solely on medication, awaken the miraculous points already in our bodies. Acupressure is not a special technique. Anyone can do it if they know how to press with their fingers. At first I too wondered “will this really work?” but now it’s become the first thing I reach for when period pain starts. Today, let’s start this journey together.

    Things to know before you start

    The pressure rule: “To the degree that it’s painful but bearable” — that’s the right amount. Never press hard enough to cry out. Breathing is important: Press while breathing. If you hold your breath, your muscles tense up and effectiveness decreases. Clean hands: Washing your hands before starting reduces skin irritation. Comfortable position: Whether lying down or sitting, whatever feels right. Your body needs to be relaxed for better results.

    Remember just these 3 points

    First: Sanyinjiao (SP6)

    How to find it: Look at your ankle. You can see the inner ankle bone, right? Go up about 3 finger widths (approximately 4-5cm) from that ankle bone. It’s on the inside, back side of the bone called the tibia. To find it precisely, you’ll feel an indentation on the back of the tibia when you lift your foot. That’s exactly where Sanyinjiao is.

    How to press it: Press slowly with your thumb. With pressure that feels “ah, refreshing but a bit sore” press for 3-5 seconds, rest for 2-3 seconds, and repeat this for 1 minute. It’s good to press while exhaling and release while inhaling.

    Try pressing it when: Your lower abdomen aches from period pain, when experiencing strong emotional changes, when fatigue builds up. Think of it as the most representative acupoint for period pain.

    Second: Taichong (LR3)

    How to find it: Let’s look at the top of your foot stretched out. Do you see the space between your big toe and second toe? Try placing your finger on the back side of the top of your foot. Following the hollow area between the bones, you’ll feel a small groove. About 1-2cm up from the base of the toe toward the top of the foot, that’s where Taichong is.

    How to press it: Press with your thumb at a slight angle. Press more gently than Sanyinjiao, but for a longer duration. Press for 3 seconds and slowly release over 3 seconds, repeating for 1 minute. If you coordinate with your breathing, your body’s tension releases.

    Try pressing it when: Experiencing irregular periods due to stress, heart palpitations, when your nerves are sensitive. Think of it as a point that helps calm the mind.

    Third: Guanyuan (CV4)

    How to find it: Lie down and look at your abdomen. Think of your navel as the center, and go down about 3 finger widths (approximately 4-5cm) from your navel. On the center line of your abdomen, the point that feels slightly soft is Guanyuan. It’s located on flesh, not bone.

    How to press it: Lie down and slowly press with 3 fingers (index, middle, and ring finger) stacked. Press for 5 seconds and rest for 3 seconds for 1 minute, until you feel warmth building inside your abdomen. This is the most gentle point to press, as pressing too hard can make your abdomen uncomfortable.

    Try pressing it when: Your lower abdomen feels cold and uncomfortable, your whole body feels heavy from period pain, when your energy is low. It’s a master point that helps blood circulation around the uterus and pelvis.

    Beginner 3-minute routine

    Try it like this: In the morning when you wake up or before bed at night, anytime is fine when period pain is severe. (1) First, press Sanyinjiao for 1 minute — 30 seconds on each ankle. (2) Next, Taichong for 1 minute — 30 seconds on each foot. (3) Finally, press Guanyuan for 1 minute to finish. 3 minutes total is enough. The first 3 days might feel awkward, but from day 4 onward, your hands will naturally find the right spots.

    3 common mistakes

    1. Pressing too hard — This is the most common mistake among beginners. Thinking “it must work if it hurts,” but acupressure is the opposite. Pressing too hard causes your body to trigger a defense reflex, reducing effectiveness. The right amount is always “hmm… it’s a bit sore but bearable.”

    2. Holding your breath — You might hold your breath while concentrating. This worsens blood circulation and causes stiffness instead. Consciously breathe slowly. The rhythm of “press while exhaling, release while inhaling” is best.

    3. Doing it only once — Acupressure’s effects come from consistency. Period pain won’t suddenly disappear from one pressing. You need to do it daily for at least 3-5 days before thinking “huh? this really is getting better.” Judge after trying for a few days.

    Moving to the next level

    Once you’re familiar with these 3 points, there are additional acupoints to try. Xuehai (SP1 — at the root of the nail on the inside of the big toe) is effective for irregular periods, and Fugui (SP7) right above Sanyinjiao is another partner for period pain. But first, focus only on these 3 points. You need to understand how your body responds before moving forward. The world of acupressure is deeper and more beautiful than you might think. Walk slowly, at your own pace.

    🤰 Pregnant women: caution: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or might be pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before using these points.
    ⚠️ Medical disclaimer: This article is written for health information purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.
  • Introduction to Self-Acupressure for Stress Relief — Start With These 3 Points if You’re New

    Introduction to Self-Acupressure for Stress Relief — Start With These 3 Points if You’re New

    One-line summary: Without any special technique, try relieving everyday stress by pressing 3 points with just your fingers. Start today.

    Acupressure is not difficult

    You know those days when your neck feels stiff while working, your mind feels anxious before bed at night, or something keeps bothering you? I experience that often too. In these moments, going to a hospital feels burdensome, and I don’t always feel like taking medicine. But acupressure is really simple. You don’t need any special tools—just your own fingers and body. It’s like when a friend gently taps your shoulder. In this article, I’ll introduce just 3 acupressure points that truly anyone can do. Try them right now.

    What to know before starting

    The most important thing about acupressure is finding that feeling of “pleasant without being painful.” It’s like when we massage our shoulders with our hands. If you press too lightly, it won’t be effective, but you shouldn’t press too hard either. And breathing is really important. Breathe out slowly while pressing. Start with clean hands, in a comfortable sitting or lying position. Avoid pressing right after eating snacks or fatty foods, and it’s fine to rest well in between sessions.

    Remember just these 3 points

    First: Sanyinjiao (SP6) — a special remedy for stress and anxiety

    How to find it: Find your inner ankle (the ankle bone on the inside of your leg). Place four fingers stacked on top of the bone. Four finger-widths make up approximately 3 cun (the measurement unit in traditional Chinese medicine). From that location, find the area directly behind the shinbone (between the bone and the calf muscle). It’s okay if you’re not exact. As you press around that area, you’ll get that “Ah, here it is!” feeling.

    How to press: Slowly press with your thumb. You should feel something pleasant without pain. Maintain the pressure for 3-5 seconds while slowly exhaling, then release the pressure while slowly inhaling. Repeat this 5 times, taking about 1 minute total.

    Press it in these situations: When you feel nervous before a meeting, when you feel anxious 30 minutes before bedtime, when your heart sinks during your Monday morning commute.

    Second: Taichong (LR3) — the magic button for mood change

    How to find it: Look at the top of your foot. There’s a hollow indentation between your big toe and second toe. Follow the space between them from your toes toward your heel, and find the point just before where the foot bones meet (in front of where the toe bones connect). At first it might be a bit confusing, but as you press around the area, you’ll feel that sensitive point that says “Ah, here it is!”

    How to press: Slowly press using your thumb. It might feel slightly painful at first—that’s normal. Press for 3-5 seconds while exhaling, then release while inhaling. Repeat 5 times, taking about 1 minute total. Do both feet.

    Press it in these situations: When you’re angry or feel frustrated, when you need a mood change, when fatigue has made your spirit sink.

    Third: Hegu (LI4) — the liberator of fatigue and tension

    How to find it: Open your palm and look at the back of your hand. Between your thumb and index finger, there’s a hollow indentation like a pool. Precisely, it’s where the index finger bone and thumb bone meet. This one is really easy to find—you can feel it right now if you like. When you bring your fingers together, the highest point in that space is Hegu.

    How to press: Press with the thumb of your opposite hand. You’ll feel a slightly sharp, refreshing sensation. Press while exhaling (3-5 seconds), then release while inhaling. Repeat this 5 times. You must do both hands. It takes about 1 minute.

    Press it in these situations: When your head throbs and you feel tired, when your neck and shoulders are stiff, when your body feels heavy after a full day of work.

    Beginner 3-minute routine

    It’s best to do this either in the morning (30 minutes after waking) or evening (1 hour before bed). Here’s the order: First minute: Sanyinjiao (SP6) on both sides for 1 minute → Second minute: Taichong (LR3) on both sides for 1 minute → Third minute: Hegu (LI4) on both hands for 1 minute. Do this in a comfortable position (sitting or lying down), breathe deeply, take your time, and never rush. Consistency is what brings results. Start by doing it daily, and once you’re familiar with it, you can do it as needed.

    3 common mistakes

    1. Pressing too hard: The idea that “the more it hurts, the better” is a misconception. You shouldn’t press so hard that you can’t feel your pulse. The right pressure is when you feel “Ah, there it is” with a refreshing sensation. If your fingers start to hurt, alternate with your other hand or reduce the pressure.

    2. Forgetting to breathe: Many people hold their breath while doing acupressure. This actually creates tension in your body instead. The key is to consciously breathe slowly while pressing. Listening to music while doing this can help your breathing feel more natural.

    3. Doing too much too soon in the first week: It’s good to commit to “starting this daily from now on,” but if you overdo it from the start, you’ll quit quickly. Start with 3-4 times a week, 3 minutes a day, to build the habit. Before long, you’ll naturally find yourself doing it daily.

    Moving to the next level

    Once you become familiar with these 3 points (usually after 2-3 weeks), there are additional acupressure points you can try. Shenmen (below the heart, on the inside of the arm) deals with anxiety more deeply, and Fengchi (the hollow area at the back of the neck) is especially effective for headaches and fatigue. But there’s no rush. You’ll definitely feel changes with just the 3 points you’ve learned now. If your symptoms are severe or persist for a long time, consult with a traditional Chinese medicine doctor or medical professional. Acupressure is a supplementary tool, not the complete treatment itself.

    🤰 Pregnancy warning: Some acupressure points including Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or might be pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional Chinese medicine doctor or medical professional before practicing.
    ⚠️ Medical disclaimer: This article is written for informational health purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, please consult with a medical professional.