Stress has become a daily companion for many of us, affecting our physical and mental health. Did you know that a recent study revealed that 73% of French people say they feel stress regularly? Faced with this silent epidemic, rapid and effective solutions exist. Acupression, a Chinese ancestral technique, offers surprising results in just 2 minutes a day, without any special equipment.
What is acupressure and how does it work?
Acupression is a technique derived from acupuncture which consists in exerting pressure on strategic points of the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, these points are linked to energy meridians. Their stimulation releases blockages and restores the balance of “IQ”, vital energy.
Unlike acupuncture, acupressure does not require needles and can be practiced everywhere, by all. Recent scientific studies confirm that this millennial practice stimulates the release of endorphins and decreases cortisol production, stress hormone.
The 5 most effective acupressure points against stress
Lee Hoku (L4): Lunch: L’T Army-Stress Express
Located in the flesh between the go and the index, this point is the best known for quickly relieving stress. Put firm pressure for 2 minutes, breathing deeply. A study published in 2024 has shown that this simple technique can reduce anxiety levels by 37% in just a few minutes.
Points under the collarbones to soothe immediately
Located in the hollows under your collarbones, these points are remarkably effective in reducing stress -related blood pressure. Apply a slight pressure for 1 minute to feel immediate appeasement. This technique is particularly recommended for people with high cortisol levels.
Nei-kuan points against stress nausea
Located on the inside of the wrist, about three fingers above the fold, these points help calm not only the stress but also the nausea which often accompanies it. A circular massage of 2 minutes is enough to obtain significant results.
How to practice anti-stress acupressure effectively
The ideal technique consists in applying a firm but comfortable pressure, by performing small circular movements. Breathe deep during the exercise to amplify the relaxing effects. For optimal results, practice 2 to 3 times a day, especially at stressful peak moments.
Video of the day
-The integration of acupression into your morning routine can be particularly beneficial to start the day in a calm and centered state of mind.
What science says about the effectiveness of acupressure
A meta-analysis published in 2023 in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine examined 28 controlled studies on acupression. The results are eloquent: 76% of participants reported a significant decrease in their level of stress after only 2 to 5 minutes of practice.
Brain scanners have also shown a reduction in activity in areas associated with anxiety after stimulating points such as Hoku and Nei-Kuan. These discoveries reinforce the idea that acupressure is not just a placebo effect, but a therapeutic technique with measurable physiological effects.
Acupressure, an ideal complement to other anti-stress practices
To maximize benefits, combine acupression with other approaches such as deep breathing or meditation. This combination can be particularly effective for those who seek to slow down their pace of life and adopt a more balanced approach to daily stress.
Remember that acupressure is an excellent supplement, but does not replace medical follow -up in the event of severe or chronic anxiety disorders. Always see a professional if your symptoms persist.
How to integrate acupressure into your daily life
Create a daily ritual by practicing acupression at key moments: upon waking up, during your lunch break and before sleeping. Two minutes per session is enough to feel the benefits. Adapt your practice according to your needs – intensify during increased stress.
The beauty of acupressure lies in its simplicity: without equipment, without cost, usable everywhere. It is a perfect technique for our time when stress accompanies us even in our pockets via our smartphones.
