Most of us look for ways to relax from the stress of our busy modern lives. Maybe it’s kicking back with a beer or glass of wine after a hard day’s work. Or perhaps it’s a game of golf or tennis, or a workout at the gym. Let me share another option that is not only relaxing but has many profound health benefits. These benefits include regulating blood pressure and heart rate, calming the nervous system, easing digestion, supporting the immune system, reducing pain levels and providing a feeling of overall well being. Such is the power of Acupressure.

One of the most frequent comments I hear from my clients after a session is about how relaxed they feel. They say things like, “Wow, I can’t remember the last time I felt this relaxed.” Or, “I feel so relaxed I don’t think I can get up off the table.” Here is a technique that can relax you more deeply and completely than beer, wine, golf or tennis.

Moving Energy

Five Element Acupressure is a form of bodywork that is based on Chinese medicine and influenced by Japanese Shiatsu. It can be done anywhere, anytime by anyone who has a few fingers. It is like acupuncture but uses finger pressure rather than needles to achieve movements of Qi energy in the body. When blockages in the Qi flow are removed, the effect is a balancing of the whole body energy system, producing improvements in health and functioning. It addresses both symptoms and the underlying causes of disease.

Studies have shown that stimulation of the acu-points releases endorphins (the body’s natural pain killers); reduces inflammation both locally and systemically; and regulates hormones and brain chemicals, assisting the body’s natural movement towards homeostasis or balance. Such studies explain what recipients of acu-therapies already know, that treatment makes you more relaxed because all the systems of the body are moving towards balance.

Acupressure is most potent in the hands (or fingers!) of a skilled practitioner. But what is exciting about this work is that even beginners can have really positive effects when treating others. What is more, you can even learn to use it on yourself.

Point the Way

I am excited to be starting this blog in order to share with you some of the most potent acupressure points, some powerful point combinations, as well as introducing you to the Five Elements of Chinese medicine which underlie this whole system of acupressure.

Feel free to leave your questions and comments. Let me know what interests you, what you find useful, what more you’d like to know. What you want will guide the direction that this blog will take. My aim is to blog at least twice a month, so keep checking back.

Learn how to press the relax button!