Acupressure is safe, effective and suitable for anyone; all you need is the willingness to learn and practice. It can be effectively used by both lay people and health professionals as an adjunct to therapy and can be applied at any age or stage of life from babies to the elderly. However, remember always to start with light pressure in order to gauge sensitivity and body reactions to the acupoint. Also remember to take careful note of the cautions and contraindications.
Acupressure can be practiced anytime, anywhere, but it is advisable not to do it directly after eating or when very hungry or tired. Allow at least an hour after eating a meal or take a light snack or rest first. It is best if you are comfortable and relaxed and, if possible, in a quiet, warm and well-ventilated room. In good weather acupressure can also be practiced out of doors.
The length of the time that acupressure is applied will depend on individual sensitivity and the degree of health or imbalance. Generally, application for 1-3 minutes is sufficient, and little and often is more effective than a longer period at irregular intervals.
In the case of an acute condition, or profound discomfort or pain, acupressure should be repeated regularly throughout the day at hourly or 2-hourly intervals, then gradually decreased to 3 times a day as the condition improves and finally 2-3 times a week to maintain improvement and prevent recurrence. For long-standing conditions, regular acupressure 2-3 times a week over several weeks or months should lead to improvement.
Before you begin acupressure, take a few minutes to stretch and relax the body, breathe deeply and release any mental tension or worry. Loosen any tight clothing, get in a comfortable position and rub the hands together to warm them. Rotate the wrists and flex the hands and individual fingers to increase circulation in them.
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