Table of contents:
- How does acupressure treat insomnia?
- Various acupressure points to treat insomnia
- 1. Spirit gate
- 2. The intersection of the three yin
- 3. Wind pool
- 4. Bubbling spring
Inhaling aromatherapy, taking warm baths, and doing breathing techniques are some of the methods that can help you sleep soundly when you experience insomnia. However, if all these methods are not effective enough to treat insomnia, acupressure can be an alternative that is worth a try.
How does acupressure treat insomnia?
Acupressure is a massage technique by applying pressure to certain points on the body. The acupressure therapist presses these points with your fingers, palms, or a special tool made of wood.
The principle of acupressure is actually similar to acupuncture, which is to increase the flow of energy chi contained in your body. Energy flow chi being obstructed is believed to be the cause of a variety of health problems, including insomnia.
When used to treat insomnia, acupressure will have several positive effects on your body. These include overcoming a tense body, relaxing muscles and joints, reducing anxiety, and relieving pain and discomfort.
This massage technique can also improve blood circulation, lymph system, and hormone performance. With a relaxed body and smooth circulation, sleep is better so that the quality of sleep improves.
Various acupressure points to treat insomnia
There are hundreds of acupressure points located on your body. Among the hundreds of points, here are some acupressure points that you can press to treat insomnia:
1. Spirit gate
Source: Healthline
Point spirit gate there is an indentation on the outer wrist, precisely under the little finger. To find this point, gently feel your wrist using Mother's Day, then follow these steps:
- Press gently using a circular or up-and-down motion.
- Continue for 2-3 minutes.
- Press and hold the left side of the point for a few seconds, then do it to the right of the point.
- Repeat all of these steps on the right wrist.
2. The intersection of the three yin
Source: Healthline
The point of intersection of the three yin is on the inner leg, precisely above the ankle. Apart from treating insomnia, this acupressure point can also be used to relieve menstrual pain and pelvic disorders.
Here are the steps for doing acupressure at this point:
- Find the three yin intersection points on your feet. The trick, stick your 4 fingers on top of the ankle. This point is on the top finger.
- Press the point in a circular or up-down motion.
- Do this for 4-5 seconds, then repeat on the other leg.
3. Wind pool
Source: Healthline
Point wind pool found on the right and left side of the back of the neck. You can find this point by feeling a pair of mastoid bones behind the ear. Scroll up until you find a pair of indentations just below the head.
You can press both of these acupressure points to treat insomnia caused by respiratory problems, such as coughing. Here are the steps:
- After finding the point on your neck, press it with both thumbs.
- Massage in circular or up and down movements for 4-5 seconds.
- Inhale and exhale deeply as you massage the area.
4. Bubbling spring
Source: Healthline
Point bubbling spring found on the sole of the upper foot. This point is clearly visible when your toes bend inward. Do acupressure on point bubbling spring believed to be effective for dealing with insomnia because it can provoke drowsiness.
The steps are as follows:
- Start by lying on your back so that you can press the soles of your feet with your hands.
- Grab your foot with one hand, then bend your toes inward.
- Look for the indentation at the top of your foot.
- Press the indentation deeply, then massage for a few minutes using a circular or up-and-down motion.
Acupressure is a promising natural way to treat insomnia. The reason is, this method helps the body relax, improve blood circulation, and relax the muscles so that your body is better prepared for sleep.
However, get checked out immediately if the insomnia lasts for weeks or even gets worse. Severe insomnia can indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention.