Acupressure is one of the ancient methods of treating illnesses that has its roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Both Acupressure and Acupuncture are based on the same principles and theories. They both are carried out by applying pressure on the acupoints (pressure points) to remove any blockages.

Acupressure is also used to treat mental illnesses. Some of the acupoints to relieve depression are;

• Nei Guan (PC 6)

Nei Guan (Pericardium 6) is located at the center of your wrist, at a distance of approximately two fingers from your palm. Apply pressure on it for at least two to three minutes using either your thumb or forefinger. The procedure needs to be repeated on the Nei Guan of both your arms.

This point is also used to treat nausea or vomiting.

• Shen Men (HT 7)

Shen Men, or as it is known in acupuncture terminology, Heart 7, means Spirit Gate. This point is used to calm the mind and helps in resolving symptoms related to emotions. Examples of such symptoms can be anxiety or panic attacks. Like Nei Guan, it is also located on your wrist. However, the difference is that it is located just beneath your wrist instead of two fingers away like Nei Guan. Also, instead of being in the center, you will find it at the ulnar end of the distal wrist crease when the palm faces upward.

Apply pressure on the Shen Men point of both your wrists, one by one, with the help of your thumb. You can also do so by moving your thumb in a circular motion on the point.

• Bai Hui (GV20)

Governor Vessel 20, or as they say in Chinese; Bai Hui, is located on the top of your head. As it is located on the head, it is used to treat headaches, increase memory, and increasing your focus. It also helps in clearing your mind when you have been overthinking.

Since your cranial nerves and muscles are extremely sensitive, you are not allowed to put too much pressure on them. Just put gentle pressure on it for a minute and then leave it alone 30 seconds. Repeat the process a few times.

• Tai Chong (LR 3)

Tai Chong, which means “Great Rushing “in Chinese, is also known as Liver 3. This point is located on your foot, right between your first two toes. If you place your finger between the area of your first and second toe and then moving 2 fingers away in that direction, you will find the junction between your toes and this where you will find the Tai Chong point. Apply pressure using your thumbs on these points of both of your feet. Again, you can also move your thumb in a circular motion.

This point is also used in case of stress, high blood pressure, insomnia, lower back pain, and anxiety.

• He Gu (LI 4)

The highest point on the web created by your forefinger and thumb is called He Gu, or Large Intestine 4. It helps with the stress and the headaches that are caused because of depression. There is also a device known as “Aculief”. It is used to apply constant pressure on this point.

Although it is an ancient method, it is still used in many parts of the world. Some people also enroll themselves to receive proper training of acupressure and acupuncture. Effective or not, the greatest thing about acupressure is that it is extremely simple and you rarely need any outside help. You can easily find these points on your body and apply pressure on them yourself. You can also massage these points by moving your fingers in circular motions. Nowadays, you can also find acupressure sticks for points that are hard to reach.  

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