Acupressure Massage
What is acupressure massage?
Like acupuncture but without the needles, acupressure uses gentle pressure to balance the flow of energy around the body. Ideal for stressed office workers, this quick, refreshing massage can even be delivered at your desk
An acupressure massage is designed to address any imbalances in the flow of energy around the body.
What parts of the body does it involve?
It concentrates on the pressure points that lie along the meridian lines of the body through which energy or chi is said to flow.
Acupressure is based on the principal that there are 12 main meridians (or channels) that course through the body, plus two extra channels that run up the torso and head, front and back. Each meridian starts at the fingertips and connects to the brain via an organ.
The acupoints manipulated during an acupressure massage are said to be the points on the body at which the channels flow closest to the surface. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points along these lines. While acupuncture uses needles, acupressure uses gentle but firm finger and thumb pressure. By massaging these points, the corresponding organs are said to receive therapeutic treatment.
Is there any evidence?
The benefits of acupressure are greatly underappreciated, according to practitioner Sue Chinn. “We know that acupressure works because we see its positive effects every day. The problem is, we can’t reach everyone who would benefit from treatment because once you mention the flow of energetic forces, they become sceptical.”
Western scientists have, however, shown that many of the acupoints are located at key crossways of the autonomic nervous system. This may explain in part why they can affect pain experienced in a remote part of the body.
Where does it come from?
Knowledge of channels and acupoints has developed over thousands of years of treatment in China and Japan.
Seated acupressure for overworked office staff was developed in America in 1986 by TouchPro founder David Palmer. TouchPro was introduced to the UK by Steve Bird in 1991, following its success across the Atlantic. Acupressure massages took off because they are quick, unintrusive and effective – you can be treated fully clothed and go straight back to work feeling refreshed.
Who can do it?
Acupressure is suitable for most people, and you can even treat yourself (although you may not be able to reach all pressure points). Acupressure massage is most commonly used to relax office workers, destressing the upper back, neck and head. Office massage can also be used to great effect on the nervous system to decrease tension headaches and other physical manifestations of stress. It is also claimed to strengthen the immune system and aid general vitality. Acupressure may also benefit children and babies, although you should always consult your GP before treatment.
What results can you expect?
Immediately after an acupressure massage you should feel calm and collected. You may feel energised, or exhausted. Either way, it is your body’s way of communicating what you require to achieve homeostasis. Try to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, to help flush toxins from the body.
Contra-indications
People with heart conditions, kidney disease, cancer, epilepsy, diabetes, low blood pressure or a history of mental illness should consult their GP before undergoing treatment. Pregnant women are strongly advised not to have treatment in their first trimester and pressure should not be applied to damaged or sensitive skin.
