Key Massage Pressure Points For Relaxation and Tension Relief
When we're stressed out or feeling tensed up in our bodies, a massage can often do wonders in helping to release knots and tension, relaxing the muscles, and getting that all-important circulation back into the muscles themselves.
One way to make massage therapy even more effective is by working with your body's pressure points; these are specific points located all over your body that, when stimulated, can help to release tension and relax certain muscles.
In this blog, we're going to go over some key massage pressure points in the body. and show you how you can stimulate them at home for some much-needed muscle relief. Let's get started!
What are massage pressure points?
Massage pressure points are specific areas on the body that, when pressed or massaged, can help relieve tension and improve circulation - either on the specific area being touched or elsewhere in the body. Pressure points can be found throughout the body, and there are specific techniques that you'll want to employ to get the most benefit out of them.
And yes, you can really work your massage pressure points at home yourself! While a professional massage therapist - such as a mobile massage in Atlanta - will offer a more comprehensive massage treatment, you can still use the techniques below if you're experiencing achy, tired muscles and are in need of instant relief.
Back massage techniques: pressure points for relief
So, where are the body's pressure points, and how can they be stimulated to provide relief and relaxation? We're going to start with the back, as back pain is one of the most common medical complaints in the US, and back pain also has a long-established track record of being receptive to massage therapy.
Just like regular massage therapy, massaging the key pressure points in the back can also help provide relief for ongoing discomfort, while also helping your body relax, unwind, and release unwanted tension. Here's how:
Your waist
There are two key pressure points around your waist which can help offer relief for lower back pain; you can find these by simply putting both hands around your middle, while ensuring that your thumbs are placed around your back. Once your hands are in place, apply firm - but not uncomfortable - pressure with your hands and perform circular motions for around five seconds, while keeping your thumbs in place while doing so. You can repeat this up to three times for maximum effect.
Your calves
Your body's muscles and joints are always working together, which is why you can actually help relieve lower back pain by massaging certain pressure points in your calves. Repeat the same motion above with your hands placed around halfway up your calf muscles (with your thumbs around the back of the muscle). Apply the same steady pressure and circular motions for five seconds, performing three of these in total. Make sure not to apply too much pressure - poorly performed massage techniques can lead to bruising and discomfort afterwards.
Massage pressure points for shoulder pain
Shoulder pain is another common medical complaint in the US, and like back pain, can often be relieved and improved with skilful massage therapy. Here's how to use your body's pressure points to relieve discomfort around your shoulders:
The hand valley point
The hand valley is a pressure point located between your thumb and forefinger, which in appearance looks slightly webbed. Massaging this pressure point is said to be able to help improve shoulder pain and tension, while also helping to prevent and reduce headache frequency. (This is because shoulder pain and tension are closely linked to tension headaches, which can become chronic if ongoing discomfort isn't addressed).
To stimulate the hand valley point for shoulder and headache relief, locate the valley in between your thumb and finger, and press down until you feel mild discomfort. Hold this position for 5 seconds, before releasing and repeating this same movement three times. It's not important which hand you use here; just make sure you're applying a firm pressure throughout.
Triggering pressure points: tips and tricks
Before you begin exploring your body's own pressure points, here are some tips and tricks to bear in mind for optimal results:
Create a calm, relaxing environment. Light some candles or use aromatherapy to create a more mindful space.
Don't apply pressure to freshly pulled muscles. It's important to let muscles rest after they've become pulled or strained, so wait at least 72 hours before attempting any pressure point therapy.
For optimal relaxation, opt for a professional massage. While you may be able to obtain some degree of relief by stimulating your body's pressure points, nothing can rival a real massage from a skilled therapist!