Acupressure is a type of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that involves applying physical pressure to specific points on the body. It’s based on the idea that stimulating these points can improve energy flow and promote healing.
Heart health is essential for overall well-being. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, so taking care of your heart is crucial.
Some people believe that applying pressure to specific points can positively influence heart function. While acupressure shouldn’t replace conventional medical treatments, it may be a helpful complementary therapy. This article discusses five pressure points that some people use to support heart health.
Understanding Acupressure: Principles and Practice
The Foundation of Acupressure
Acupressure is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), or vital energy, that flows through meridians in your body. In TCM, blockages in the flow of Qi can cause health problems.
Applying pressure to specific points is thought to restore balance and promote healing by stimulating various physiological processes.
Locating Acupressure Points
Finding the right spot is key to making acupressure effective. Diagrams and guides can help you locate the correct points.
You can perform acupressure using your fingers, thumbs, or specialized tools. Apply gentle, firm pressure to the point.
Key Acupressure Points for Heart Health
Acupressure offers a non-invasive approach to supporting heart health. Here are five key pressure points that may help:
Heart 7 (HT7) – Shenmen (Spirit Gate)
Location: Find the wrist crease on the side closest to your little finger. The point is on the outer edge of the tendon.
Benefits: Shenmen helps calm your mind, eases anxiety, and can help you get a more restful sleep. It may also help regulate your heart rhythm and reduce palpitations.
Pericardium 6 (PC6) – Neiguan (Inner Pass)
Location: On the inside of your forearm. Measure up two thumb-widths from your wrist crease. The point is between the two tendons.
Benefits: Neiguan can ease nausea and chest tightness, and helps regulate heart function. Research has shown that acupressure on this point can significantly reduce heart rate and blood pressure in people with hypertension.
Conception Vessel 17 (CV17) – Shanzhong (Chest Center)
Location: Find the middle of your chest, right at nipple level.
Benefits: Shanzhong helps open your chest, promotes relaxation, and makes breathing easier. It can also relieve emotional stress and improve circulation.
Heart 3 (HT3) – Shaohai (Lesser Sea)
Location: On the inside of your elbow, at the end of the crease when your elbow is bent.
Benefits: Shaohai supports heart function and calms your spirit. It may also alleviate emotional imbalances related to heart conditions.
Kidney 27 (KD27) – Shufu (Shu Mansion)
Location: Right below your collarbone, next to your sternum.
Benefits: Shufu strengthens your body, relieves anxiety, and helps support breathing. It can also improve your overall energy levels and reduce fatigue.
How to use acupressure for heart health
Here’s how to incorporate acupressure into your daily routine:
- Preparation and environment. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be interrupted. Be sure you’re relaxed and free from distractions.
- Technique. Find the acupressure point carefully. Use your finger or thumb to apply gentle but firm pressure. Take slow, deep breaths while you hold the pressure for one to three minutes. You can also massage the area in small circles.
- Frequency and duration. To get the most benefit, incorporate acupressure into your morning, midday, and evening routines, or whenever you feel stressed. Practice regularly to get the best results.
What are the benefits, and what does the science say?
Potential benefits of acupressure for heart health
- Acupressure may increase blood flow to the heart, which improves circulation.
- Acupressure may decrease stress hormones and increase relaxation.
- Acupressure may reduce anxiety and depression.
- Acupressure may alleviate chest pain, palpitations, and shortness of breath.
Does acupressure work?
Research shows acupressure may positively affect heart rate, blood pressure, stress, and anxiety.
Acupressure may be a good add-on therapy to help manage heart disease symptoms. A review in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine supports the idea that acupressure is a helpful complementary therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pressure points stop a racing heart?
While pressure points are often explored for various wellness purposes, it’s crucial to understand that they aren’t a substitute for medical treatment for a racing heart (tachycardia). If you experience a rapid heart rate, seek immediate medical attention. The vagus nerve stimulation techniques, like the Valsalva maneuver, can sometimes help slow the heart, but a doctor’s guidance is essential.
What are the five forbidden acupuncture points?
The concept of “forbidden” acupuncture points is nuanced and varies among practitioners. Some traditional texts mention points that should be avoided during pregnancy or in weakened individuals. However, the idea of absolutely “forbidden” points isn’t universally accepted in modern acupuncture practice. Always consult a qualified and licensed acupuncturist.
What are 5 common pressure points?
Five commonly known pressure points include: the Hegu point (LI4) located on the hand, often used for headaches; the Tai Chong point (LV3) on the foot, believed to relieve stress; the Jian Jing point (GB21) on the shoulder, for neck pain; the Yingxiang point (LI20) near the nose, for sinus congestion; and the Sanyinjiao point (SP6) on the inner leg, sometimes used for menstrual discomfort. However, always consult a qualified practitioner before using pressure points.
What are the pressure points for the heart?
There aren’t specific, widely recognized pressure points directly “for the heart” in the sense of treating heart conditions. Some acupuncturists may use points along the pericardium meridian, believing they can influence heart health, but this is part of a holistic approach within Traditional Chinese Medicine. Again, pressure points are not a substitute for conventional medical treatment for heart problems.
In Conclusion
Acupressure points like HT7, PC6, CV17, HT3, and KD27 may support heart health, but don’t stop there. Acupressure works best when paired with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and ways to reduce your stress.
Think of acupressure as one piece of your overall heart health plan. If you’re interested in exploring acupressure, talk with your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional to see if it’s right for you.