The Three Most Important Points for Cancer Patients

For Nausea and Vomiting (Pericardium  6/ Nei Guan)

Nei Guan (P6 or PC6) is commonly used to help relieve nausea, upset stomach, motion sickness, carpal tunnel syndrome, and headaches. Nei Guan (P6) is located three finger breadths below the wrist on the inner forearm in between the two tendons. To find and use this acupressure point, (1) locate the point by turning your hands over so the palm is facing up then (2) apply downward pressure between the two tendons, massaging and stimulating the area for 4-5 seconds.

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The point is located at the medial aspect of the hand.

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Three-finger space below the wrist.

For Pain Control (Large Intestine 4/He Gu)

He Gu (LI4) is commonly used for stress, facial pain, headaches, toothaches and neck pain. It is an extremely important point in pain reduction. He Gu (LI4) is located on the highest spot of the muscle when the thumb and index fingers are brought close together. To use acupressure on this point, (1) locate the point then (2) use a deep, firm pressure to massage and stimulate the area for 4-5 seconds.

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The point is located at the highest point of the muscle when thumb and index fingers are held together.

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Locate the point between the web of the first and second finger.

For Reducing Anxiety (Yintang)

  • Place your thumb or middle finger between your eyebrows at the root of your nose (see figure). That is acupoint Extra 1.
  • Apply gentle pressure to the acupoint for 10 minutes. Less time is fine if you don’t have 10 minutes to spare.
  • For added relaxation, focus on your breathing and consider visualizing yourself in a peaceful place, such as in a garden, by a stream or on a cloud.

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Acupressure Points for Allergies

To relieve sinus tensions and blocked nostrils, there are three points on the face you can massage. They are Large Intestine 20, Stomach 2 and Bladder 2. All three points are pressed twice, symmetrically on both sides of the face. Large Intestine 20 is just outside the nostril; Stomach 2 is right below the eye; and Bladder 2 is the inner end of the eyebrow.  Refer to the attached picture and you can massage all points simultaneously.

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Acupressure Relief for Headaches

Headaches present differently for each person, with varying degrees of pain, tension, and/or tenderness. So, a lot will depend on the location of the pain, as far as which points will require acupressure. To begin, the first step is to sit comfortably, take a few deep breaths with your eyes closed, and loosen any tension or tight muscles in the body. Performing acupressure while relaxed ensures optimal results.

First, Large Intestine 4 is such a powerful acupuncture point for headaches that it is often referred to as “the headache point.” It is located on the padded area of your hand, between the thumb and index finger and between the first and second metacarpal bones. Massage this point with your thumb on both hands for approximately 30 seconds.

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Second, Taiyang on the temples. If your headache is on one or both sides of your head, which can include the temples, then apply pressure at a point called TaiYang, which is half way between the outer corner of the eyebrow and your hairline. Using a firm touch from your middle finger, press and hold for 10 seconds. Next, without lifting your fingers, make little clockwise circular motions for 10 seconds. Repeat this procedure in a counter-clockwise motion. This may be repeated for up to 3 minutes.

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Third, there is Gall Bladder 20 called Feng Chi. For relieving pain and tension in the back of the head and neck, the area including and surrounding GB20, is an excellent choice. You will find your left and right GB20 point about 2 inches outward from your spine, at the base of your skull. The medical term for this part of the cranium is the occipital bone. Cradle the back of your head in both hands and use your thumbs to firmly rub back and forth right below your occipital bones. Create some heat with a vigorous rub, then use your thumb pads to press into the area. This can be done for 2 or 3 minutes.

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Do you or someone you know suffer from headaches or migraines? Call today to find out how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help you!

Self Acupuncture for Grief, Depression, Anxiety and Exhaustion

Lu 1: The 1st Lung Meridian Point called  Zhong Fu (Central Palace)

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Lung 1 is located on the top of the chest, under the shoulder. First locate the depression under the end of the clavicle, next to the muscle. LU-1 is one thumbwidth under this point, slightly to the side. These acupressure points on both sides of your can facilitate letting go of deep-seated fear, anxiety, depression, or grief. This point is also excellent for cough, asthma, and wheezing.

When your energy system is blocked, you can become fatigued, anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, and despondent because your supply of energy is impaired.  Use your fingertips to press the Lu 1. Inhale slowly and deeply as you gradually release your finger pressure, bring your arms outward, lift your chest, and tilt your head back. Hold your breath for a few second to assimilate the oxygen.  Exhale as your head comes downward and your fingertips return to the Lung 1 acupressure points. Repeat this exercise four or five more times.

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Try this acupressure point several times a day, along with deep breathing techniques, if you want to lessen your anxiety/depression.