Massage &Relaxation: part two: Soul:

Acupressure: 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
Anonymous . The Observer ; London (UK) [London (UK)]06 July 2008: 56.

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ABSTRACT (ABSTRACT)
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. It 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.
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.

FULL TEXT
What is it?
An acupressure massage is designed to address any imbalances in the flow of energy around the body.
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?

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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. It 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.
Resources
acupressureinstitute.com
Contains details of practitioners, resources and acupressure courses.
Illustration

Caption: article-57acu.2

DETAILS

Publication title: The Observer; London (UK)

First page: 56

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 6, 2008

Section: Observer Special Supplement

Publisher: Guardian News &Media Limited

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--Great Britain

ISSN: 00297712

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 Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 250513596

Document URL: https://search.proquest.com/docview/250513596?accountid=25704

Copyright: (Copyright , Guardian Newspapers Limited, Jul 06, 2008)

Last updated: 2010-06-12

Database: International Newsstream

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