How does acupressure work?
Acupressure applies the same principles as acupuncture to aid relaxation and wellness and to treat disease.
The traditional Chinese view of the body is that energy lines called meridians run throughout and give the body 'life force', much the same way blood gives the whole body life. Thousands of years ago, Asian cultures identified locations on the body where these energy pathways are close to the surface. These points can now be located with electronic 'point finders' which measure electrical skin resistance. Acupressure points have a lower electrical resistance than the surrounding skin.
When there is too much energy collected in one area of the body, or the area is low on energy, disease is said to be the result.
Acupressure refers to the gentle application of finger pressure on points that are located on the major meridians, with the intention of balancing the body's energy. The term "pressure" is misleading, since acupressure actually uses a very light touch in which the practitioner uses her fingertips to make contact with the body. It's the location of the contact that's important, not the amount of pressure.
Shiatsu, another form of acupressure, has its foundation in Traditional Chinese Medicine, but was developed in Japan. The word "shiatsu" in Japanese means "finger pressure". Shiatsu body work includes a combination of joint mobilization & stretching, muscle compression & softening, stimulation of acupressure points, leaving the patient calm, relaxed, and energized.
What is an acupressure session like?
During an acupressure session, you lie fully clothed on a soft massage table. The practitioner gently presses on acupressure points on your body. A session typically lasts about one hour.
How many acupressure sessions will I need?
You may need several sessions for the best results.
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