Anxiety and insomnia are common disorders in the modern world, and overcoming them is no easy task. Fortunately, both problems can be treated without the use of medications and even without intervention by a health professional. It comes down to locating certain pressure points on your wrist and then applying to them an ancient but proven treatment.
Understanding Acupressure
Like acupuncture, the principles of acupressure are rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. Both techniques use the application of pressure at different points in the body for the purpose of stimulating the nervous system. However, acupressure avoids the use of needles and instead relies upon hand power. It is for this reason that the technique can be performed solo while you are at home, in the office or elsewhere.
Relieving Anxiety
There are two points on or near your wrists that can be used to reduce anxiety. Pericardium 6 (PC6) is located opposite the “thumb side” of each hand and three fingers below the wrist crease. Heart 7 (HT7) is located at the wrist crease.
Using the thumb, it will be necessary to apply sufficient pressure to PC6 to disrupt the flow of blood. The thumb should be moved in a circular direction during the application of pressure, with the procedure continuing for about 2 minutes.
The same technique can be used on HT7, with considerable thumb pressure being required to achieve the desired results. However, in neither case should the pressure causes pain.
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Overcoming Sleeplessness
Since insomnia also results from discord within the body, acupressure can be equally effective in its treatment. The technique is the same, with the application of pressure to the acupoints PC6 and HT7.
Pressure needs to be applied for between 30 and 60 seconds. This technique can be used before bedtime or at night to help you go back to sleep.
Used properly, acupressure can be a great way to get to sleep at night and relieve anxiety throughout the day!
