Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that involves the application of pressure to unique energy meridian points in the body called "acupoints." By stimulating these acupoints, one can release the flow of healing energy through various vital organs all over the body. Acupressure and its pointier counterpart, acupuncture, are both forms of alternative medicine that can aid in losing weight and treating other health problems. (Related: Acupuncture found to promote weight loss by boosting appetite suppressing hormones.)
How acupressure can help you lose weight
Stress is a major factor in eating disorders. Sometimes, it can either aggravate such disorders or even be the direct cause of them. If you are constantly exposed to stress on a daily basis, it can make you feel hungry in a way that goes beyond regular hunger pangs. Chronic stress causes your body to produce high levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. Cortisol, in turn, triggers cravings for foods that provide a temporary burst of energy. Such foods are often salty, sweet, and fried foods, all of which are very unhealthy for regular consumption. This often leads to stress eating or emotional eating. Food becomes a coping mechanism that provides quick emotional relief.
Fortunately, acupressure can be used to help reduce stress. It can help you feel relaxed and lower production levels of cortisol in your body and decrease your food cravings. Additionally, stimulating the proper acupoints affects the functions of the digestive system by helping balance the flow of energy within it. This can strengthen your digestive system and help curb your compulsive urges to eat. It can even help expel excess heat and moisture from the body and improve your circulation.
Acupressure points for weight loss
Stimulating certain acupoints can help you manage your appetite. Here are some acupoints you can massage to help you lose weight:
- Abdomen Point. You can find this point exactly three centimeters below your belly button. It is useful for reducing constipation, losing weight, enhancing your digestive functions and strengthening your body. Massage this area by placing two fingers on the acupoint and moving them up and down for at least two minutes. Repeat this twice a day.
- Abdominal Sorrow Point. Follow a parallel line down from your earlobe to the point under the last rib in your rib cage. The Abdominal Sorrow Point relieves pressure caused by indigestion, ulcer, rib pain, or appetite imbalance. With curved fingers, press down on this area for five minutes a day.
- Knee Point. Locate this point on the outer side of your leg, just two inches below your kneecap. This point improves your digestive function and nourishes your blood. Place your forefinger on this area. If you can feel the muscle moving beneath your finger when you flex your foot up and down, then you've found the right spot. Use your forefinger to press down on this spot for two minutes a day.
- Ankle Point. Find this point on the inner side of your leg, just two inches above your ankle. It can help boost your spleen and strengthen your digestive system. Use your thumb or knuckle to press down on this area for one minute, then slowly release it.
If you want to learn more about acupressure and other forms of traditional Chinese medicine, you can read more articles by going to ChineseMedicine.news.
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