ACUPRESSUREPresented by Kay H. Lowell, DCT(P)

Spiritual, Health, and Wellness Center

What It Is

Acupressure is an ancient form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) using the fingers to press key points, which stimulate the body's natural self-curative abilities.

What It Is

Stimulating these points releases endorphins, which are neurochemicals that relieve pain, so pain is blocked.

What It Is

Acupressure is a safe and gentle alternative therapy used to relieve symptoms from many common disorders.

What It Is

A skilled practitioner simply uses their thumbs and fingers (sometimes the elbow, crystals, etc.) to exert pressure to specific body points, which are located on the Meridian Energy System Map.

Purpose of Acupressure

To restore and maintain the balance between body, mind and spirit.

Effective for the Following Conditions

• Common Colds• Insomnia• Painful menses• Minor headaches• Leg cramps

Effective for the Following Conditions

• Joint and muscle aches• Nasal Bleeding• Asthma• Mild Nausea and/or vomiting and

diarrhea

History

Acupressure has been practiced as a healing art for more than 5,000 years.

History

It is a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is rooted in Taoism

History

Practitioners charged for their services only when a patient was healthy. When the patient became ill, practitioners worked to restore health and only accepted payment when health was restored.

Foundational Elements of TCM

Chi or Qi

Foundational Elements of TCM

Concept of Yin and Yang

Foundational Elements of TCM

The Five Elements1.Earth2.Water3.Metal4.Wood5.Fire

TCM View of Chi

TCM holds the belief that Chi/Qi is our life essence and is a vital force in maintaining and nurturing our bodies, minds, and spirits.

TCM View of Chi

Chi is the source of life, inspiration, and action.

Five Main Functions of Qi

A source of all body activity and movement

Five Main Functions of Qi

It warms the body and maintains normal body temperature.

Five Main Functions of Qi

It protects the body from harmful external environmental factors.

Five Main Functions of Qi

It transforms food and air into other vital substances.

Five Main Functions of Qi

It helps hold organs, vessels, and body tissues in their correct place so they function properly.

TCM and Yin/Yang Theory

• Yin-yang theory—the concept of two opposing, yet complementary, forces that shape the world and all life—is central to TCM.

• Used to describe the cyclical nature of energy.• Sometimes viewed as Feminine/Masculine, Dark/Light• Influences all areas of life• Cannot have one without the other and are interdependent• Transform into each other• The contrasting dot within represents the contrasting

elements of the other contained within.

TCM and Yin/Yang Theory

Yin-yang theory—the concept of two opposing, yet complementary, forces that shape the world and all life—is central to TCM.

TCM and Yin/Yang Theory

Used to describe the cyclical nature of energy.

TCM and Yin/Yang Theory

Sometimes viewed as Feminine/Masculine, Dark/Light

TCM and Yin/Yang Theory

Cannot have one without the other and are interdependent

TCM and Yin/Yang Theory

The contrasting dot within represents the contrasting elements of the other contained within.

Theory of Five ElementsTCM also uses the theory of Wu Xing or five elements—fire, earth, metal, water, and wood—to explain how the body works; these elements correspond to particular organs and tissues in the body.

When Yin and Yang are in harmony and when the Five Elements are in harmony, there is balance and good health.

Meridian Energy SystemIn the TCM view, a vital energy or life force called qi or chi circulates in the body through a system of pathways or channels called meridians. Health is an ongoing process of maintaining balance and harmony in the circulation of qi.

Meridian Energy SystemThe meridian system is an energy distribution network that is also energetic.

Meridian Energy SystemQi is like a river flowing toward its ultimate source, the ocean.

Meridian Energy SystemMeridians represent areas of high qi concentration where the energy is dynamic.

Meridian Energy SystemAny block to that energy flow will result in an imbalance that is manifested in dis-ease or illness.

Meridian Energy SystemThere are 14 Primary Meridians named for the organ or function they are associated with.

Meridian Energy SystemAcupressure points are named for their position on the meridians, for example, Heart 7 or Large Intestine 4

Meridian Energy SystemThe meridians are NOT the same as arteries, veins and capillaries, and they do NOT correspond to any anatomic map in Western medicine.

Symptoms of Chi Deficiency

• Deficient Blood• Pale skin• Pale tongue• Irritability• Depression• Physical Weakness• Burn out

When Not To Have Acupressure

While Acupressure is a safe and non-invasive technique, there are some conditions in which acupressure should be avoided.

When Not To Have AcupressurePeople who are hemophiliacs, women who are pregnant, people who have recently taken drugs or alcohol, who may have sever psychotic conditions, or have acute cardiovascular disorder should avoid having acupressure.

Acupressure For Animals