Touch This Spot to Relieve Worry or Insomnia

Acupressure is an ancient Chinese practice that involves manipulating the body’s energy using pressure points. It’s a natural healing technique used for physical or emotional conditions.

With just a little guidance, you can learn some basic acupressure skills for self-healing. If you experience tension, stress, or anxiety, then the video below from the Acupressure Institute can show you how to find a sense of relief— naturally. Entitled “Emotional First Aid”, Joseph Carter demonstrates use of the Heart 7 acupressure point for depression, anxiety, stress, or insomnia.

Called Shen Men in Chinese, the English meaning of this pressure point’s name is “Spirit Gate”. Working with this point helps to calm the spirit, or even put one in good spirits. Helpful for fear, worry, and nausea too, Heart 7 is located on the wrist, close to the palm.

One thing to note about acupressure and acupuncture is that these points are located on meridians throughout the body. Meridians are the channels that link acupressure points to each other and your organs, which enables energy flow. As Joseph says, with this particular pressure point you will let stuff go from the heart gateway and bring the world back in with a new perspective. Aaaaahhhh.

Find the point in the crease of the wrist with your palm facing up. Follow along with Joseph as he shows you how to run your finger along the tendon to find where to place the pressure. It should be hollow next to the tendon. Using your thumb or finger, press the Heart 7 point inwards towards the bone. Hold it for at least 30 seconds and up to about 3 minutes.

Combine long, deep breaths with the technique to decompress. Gently massaging Heart 7 will also stimulate it. Joseph explains that along with the emotional balance this method brings, it also aids in public speaking. Since Heart 7 is connected to the tongue, acupressure on this point promotes communication from the heart or smooths out nervous speech.

Joseph also mentions that two people can utilize this in a heated exchange. Think about it: flared tempers, harsh words, and speaking out of anger. It makes sense that this method can help to cool tempers and arguments if you’re activating a sense of calm.

When you need to tone down your nerves or perk up your spirits, practice this on yourself. You can also do this on both hands for more effectiveness. Knock the restless winds out of insomnia’s sails and get some sleep!

This pressure point is recommended for beginners and those new to acupressure, as it’s powerful on its own and gentle on the system. You can add it to your wellness toolkit for when the need arises without worrying about crazy side effects or your wallet. Peep the whole video to learn the just-right touch for Heart 7.

Hey, it’s certainly worth a try to zap your insomnia or settling things down before you hit the pillow. Have you ever tried acupressure on yourself before? What do you think of this fix for anxiety, stress, or insomnia? Tell us in the comments!