Pressure Points for Better Sleep

With an increase in the number of people suffering from insomnia and sleep disorders, preference for acupressure remedies are on the rise. Finding its roots in traditional Chinese medicine, acupressure stimulates certain pressure points on the human body as part of physical and mental healing. This is mainly because the human body is capable of self-healing, and when these pressure points are activated rightly, it goes a long way in treating illness and relieving pain.

In this article, we will focus on certain pressure points that can help address insomnia and associated sleep disorders to ensure you get eight hours of satisfying sleep. While it may sound overwhelming to do this without a professional, activating pressure points for sleep can be done by self. By firmly pressing these pressure points with your thumb, you can easily induce sleep and improve sleep quality over time. It is important to remember that acupressure remedies are not always instant. Especially for sleep-related acupressure, requires practice for days to observe notable changes.

The SP6 Point

Located inside the leg, four-finger space above the ankle, this pressure point can relieve menstrual pains and also help address insomnia. To activate this pressure point, apply pressure on the lower leg bone, and massage for five seconds in a circular motion. Regularly activating this point is also known to reduce daytime fatigue and improve sleep quality.

Caution: Researchers recommend pregnant women to avoid applying pressure on this point.

The Heart 7 (HT7) Point

Located on the inner wrist and under the palm, look for the hollow point on the base of the wrist along the pinky finger. This pressure point is known to heal anxiety and stress-related problems. As we know stress is a major contributor to sleep problems amongst most adults. Therefore, applying pressure on this point in a circular motion for a few seconds can relax your muscles and ease your stress. Additionally, activating this pressure point is also known to calm the mind, which can help you fall asleep easily.

The Kidney 3 (KD3) Point

Located at the side of the ankle, the KD3 point is best known to relieve hypertension and insomnia. To activate this point, place your thumb on the hollow between your inside ankle and the heel. By applying firm pressure and massaging for several minutes every day can help lower blood pressure, while at the same time it helps overcome insomnia.

The GB20 Point

This pressure point can be located behind the ears, where the neck meets the skull. This pressure point is not only best to address insomnia but also helps with migraine, headache, fatigue, and flu. Apply deep and firm pressure on the mastoid bone (behind the ear) in a circular motion for four to five seconds with intervals. Breath in deeply while applying pressure and exhale while releasing the pressure. Additionally, activation of this pressure point can also heal respiratory issues.

Adapting these small tips as part of you sleep schedule can ensure you do this on a daily basis.