Desi Wardrobe Malfunctions

It is a millenary Chinese technique of healing that uses the fingers (and sometimes the toes) to press certain points on the surface of the skin to stimulate the natural self-curative capacity of the human body. When these points (called meridian in Chinese traditional medicine) are pressed, they liberate muscular tension and improve the flow of blood and the body’s life energy (known as “qi”) to help in the healing process.

Acupressure shares the same meridian theory with acupuncture. The difference is that an acupuncturist stimulates points by introducing needles, while an acupressurist stimulates the same points using the firm pressure of hands and feet. That is why acupressure is frequently referred as "needle less acupuncture".

The benefits of acupressure include: alleviated headaches, eye strain, sinus problems, neck pain, backaches, arthritis, muscle pains, tension produced by stress, ulcer pain, menstrual cramps, lower backaches, constipation, and indigestion. Acupressure is also useful relieving anxiety and improving sleep thanks to the release of endorphin's (corporal chemicals that mitigate pain). In general, it aids to balance the body, improves the resistance to illnesses and promotes good health.

It is interesting that in acupressure local symptoms are considered an expression of the entire body's condition caused by the movement of negative energy. When the body’s energy is properly canalized trough the meridians, it not just alleviates pain, but also improves the functioning of organs, even the internals.

Acupressure is becoming more applied in Western countries for its effectiveness tension-related ailments and for its preventative properties. However, be careful with the abrupt application of acupressure or the use of excessive force during session. This could be painful and injurious to health. Greater care should be with pregnant women and when severe skin lesions exist.