Acupressure tools
Acupressure uses fingers or a simple tool on the same points as acupuncture. No needles.
Find three classic points
Hegu, on the hand
Press your thumb against your index finger. Hegu sits at the top of the muscle bulge between them. Skip this one during pregnancy.
Neiguan, on the wrist
Measure three finger widths up from the inner wrist crease, between the two tendons. Travel wristbands press this same spot.
Zusanli, below the knee
Measure four finger widths below the kneecap, one finger out from the shin bone. Press in slow circles.
Press until it aches. Never until it hurts.
What to look for
Acupressure is self-care, not treatment. In pregnancy, avoid Hegu and the lower belly. Press lightly if on blood thinners. Stay off broken skin and varicose veins. Skip spike mats if your skin is numb or fragile.
Acupressure tools
Hand-picked pieces are on the way.
Good to know
What is the difference between acupressure and acupuncture?
Acupressure uses pressure, and acupuncture uses needles. Both work from the same map of points. You can do acupressure yourself, while acupuncture needs a licensed practitioner.
How long should you press an acupressure point?
One to two minutes per point is the usual guide. Press firmly enough to feel an ache, breathe slowly, and ease off if it turns sharp.
Do acupressure mats work?
They can feel relaxing, but the evidence is thin and they are not a treatment. Spike mats are a modern wellness product that borrows the idea of pressure points. Traditional Chinese practice uses fingers, palms and simple tools.
