Acupressure Points for Stress

by Morgan Cross, R.Ac
In our busy culture, many of us struggle with chronic stress. It can feel like we never have enough time to unwind, which is why tools like acupuncture — that help move our nervous systems from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest — can be so helpful. Using acupuncture points as its basis and hands (or other tools) as its tools, acupressure can help us bring things back to center. 

 

Using acupressure to reduce stress

 

For each of the following points, you’ll want to first find a comfortable position. 

 

Locate the point as indicated in the diagram, but don’t be afraid to explore a little nearby; sometimes the areas that are most sensitive, tense, or tender are the ones that need attention.

 

After finding your point, gently and firmly press or rub in circles over the area. You might feel warmth, fuzziness, or achiness come up around the point. Continue for anywhere from 30 seconds to several minutes at a time. 

 

Yintang, Third Eye:

Located between the eyebrows, Yintang is a well-known and well-loved point for relaxation. With a bit of attention, Yintang can help stabilize moods, while allowing us to tap into our inner vision or insight.

Jianjing, Shoulder Well:

Carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? Located on the upper trapezius, roughly midway between the spine and the acromion process (that little edge you feel as you roll your finger off the top of the shoulder), Jianjing is where many of us hold the stress of our daily lives. Tension in this area feels like a rope. Gently pinch the upper trapezius or push down with the thumb to provide some relief. Caution: Jianjing should be used with caution or avoided during pregnancy. 

Hegu, Union Valley:

While holding your thumb against your hand (see picture), Hegu is located at the highest point of the muscle bulge. Dig in a bit to find a sensitive or sore spot that feels good to press on – that’s Hegu. If your stress and headaches go hand-in-hand, this is the point for you. Hegu is deeply calming and highly effective for pain – especially pain in the head. Caution: Hegu should be used with caution or avoided during pregnancy. 

Taichong, Great Surge:

Got stress accompanied by painful periods, muscle twitches, headaches, or rib pain? Taichong, located in the depression between the first and second toes (see picture), can help with that. Pro tip: give Taichong and Hegu some love during the same acupressure session – they are great partners in easing stress and moving “stuck” energy throughout the body. 

Neiguan, Inner Gate:

In the center of the inner wrist, about three finger-widths above the wrist crease, lies Neiguan, an acupressure point commonly used to alleviate nausea during pregnancy. But did you know Neiguan also helps calm the mind, strengthen our boundaries, open ourselves up to love, and feel joy? With a big effect on the stomach, Neiguan helps alleviate stress-related nausea, too.