Acupressure Points for Anxiety

An acupuncture practitioner will also be skilled in the performance of acupressure. For those who may not have access to an acupuncture practitioner in their area, the practice of acupressure is a great option since it can be done at home. Applying pressure to a few different pressure points has been shown to help to reduce both stress and anxiety. If you are looking for a natural way to reduce your symptoms, try the following pressure points for anxiety:

1. Governor Vessel (DU20)

Stimulating point DU20, known as the Governor Vessel or Baihui, can help to improve brain function which can reduce headaches and stress-related jaw clenching. Applying pressure to point DU20 can reduce arterial pressure and brain abnormalities. To locate this acupoint, fold your ear forward and draw a line from the apex of that fold to the top of the head. Once located, apply pressure for just a few seconds. Work your way up to massaging the area for longer periods.

2. Shen Men (HT7)

This acupoint is located on the wrist below the pinky finger. Applying pressure to this point will not only help to reduce anxiety, but it may even work to reduce inflammation and pain. Stimulating HT7 can even reduce the feelings of compulsion and addiction that are sometimes associated with anxiety. Try applying pressure to the area for about one minute when stressed or prior to going to bed for a good night’s sleep.

3.Great Abyss (LU9)

Stimulating point LU9 will help to provide relaxation, boost immunity, and calm breathing. LU9 is located just about the wrist below the thumb on the radial artery. To reduce anxiety, apply pressure to this point for two minutes.

4. Tangzhong (Ren 17)

Referred to as Tangzhong or CV17, REN 17 helps to soothe anxiety due to its relation to the lung viscera. Applying pressure to REN 17 can even help to regulate protective protein expression. To locate this pressure point for anxiety, apply pressure to the sternum directly between the nipples. Doing so will improve breathing thanks to its ability to tonify and regulate lung Qi. Apply a moderate amount of pressure to REN 17 for about three to seven seconds to aid in the relief of stress and anxiety.

5.Yin Tang (EXHN3)

Point Yin Tang, or EXHN3, can be located directly between the eyebrows. Combined with other pressure points for anxiety, stimulating Yin Tang can help to improve the flow of Qi to correct imbalances and other bodily dysfunctions that may be the cause of stress. To reduce anxiety, apply pressure to this point for two minutes. Studies have used this acupressure point on cancer patients to relieve anxiety, and the results showed that patients found it to be highly effective.

6.Hegu (LI4)

The acupoint LI4, which is sometimes referred to as hegu, is located in the webbing at the base of the thumb and index finger. Applying pressure to point hegu will help to reduce anxiety as well as to provide relief from the pain that is often associated with tension headaches. To achieve these benefits, try stimulating the LI4 point by applying pressure for about five minutes up to three times per day.

7. Shou San Li (LI10): The last of the recommended acupressure points for anxiety is known as Shou San Li or LI10. This point is located about two fingers below the outer part of the elbow. Studies have shown that applying pressure to this area for two minutes can help to reduce anxiety by bringing balance to Qi. In addition to reducing anxiety symptoms, gently massaging this area may also bring relief to shoulder and neck pain. It can also help with relief from diarrhea. This is because applying stimulation to this part of the body is associated with the energy flow to the large intestine.