ACUPRESSURE: A STRATEGY FOR REDUCING INFLAMMATION

Mrs Coker was attracted to the colorful poster pasted on the fence in front of her restaurant. She walked over to the fence and glanced at the poster. The poster held information about a seminar on acupressure which was organized by a health and wellness practitioner. She had never heard the word before. This piqued her interest. She checked for the date, time, and venue of the seminar. She brought out her phone and snapped the poster. She saved the number on the poster, making a mental note to call the number later in the day. 

She got home tired and exhausted from the day's activities. She was going through her gallery when she remembered that she had not called the number on the poster. She dialed the number and made more enquiry about the program. After the call, she marked the date on her calendar. She needed to know what it was all about. The signs and symptoms listed on the poster have similar patterns to what she was experiencing. She hoped this method, acupressure, would help in alleviating them. She had tried several means, but all her efforts were futile. She went online to read testimonies of people that have experienced relief from their symptoms through acupressure. She looked forward to being one of them soon.

Acupressure is the application of pressure to specific points on the body. These points are known as acupoints. Stimulation of these points help to restore balance and promote healing by enhancing circulation and releasing endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. Acupressure helps to reduce inflammation by doing the following:

1. Boosting circulation: Application of pressure to these acupoints improves blood flow thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

2. Releasing endorphins: It helps in the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which reduces the discomfort associated with inflammation.

3. Regulating immune function: Studies have shown that acupressure can help modulate the immune system making it less likely to overreact and cause inflammation.

4. Reducing the level of stress hormone.

Although there are several acupoints, there are certain acupoints that are commonly used to reduce inflammation. They are:

1. LI4 (Hegu): This point is found between the thumb and the index finger. It is often used to relieve pain and improve circulation.

2. ST36 (Zusanli): It is found about 4 finger widths below the kneecap, on the outer side of the leg. This point helps to boost the immune system and overall vitality.

3. SP6 (Sanyinjiao): It is found about 4 finger widths above the inner ankle bone. It helps with digestive health and hormonal balance, both of which play important roles in inflammation.

Acupressure can be practiced by the individual without the intervention of a specialist, although, a specialist can also do it. The following are steps to take in practicing acupressure:

1. Find the right spot by locating the acupoints mentioned in this article

2. Apply pressure to these points by using your thumb and fingers to press firmly on the point. It should feel tender but not painful.

3. Hold the pressure for about 1-2 minutes, then release. Repeat this process for a few times.

4. Practice it consistently.

Acupressure, when combined with other healthy lifestyle choices such as eating nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, and managing stress effectively, is an effective tool for reducing inflammation. 

NB We are bio individuals which is to say not all size fits all. Prioritizing yourself and your journey with the support and guidance of a health coach will further help in your progress and such a person would be able to get detailed information about themselves that could facilitate results.