The importance of self-massage

 Acupuncture is a very old therapy, it is based off of how the main internal organs work, how they work individually and together. Our bones, limbs, fingers, toes, head and every other part of our bodies are extensions of the internal organs. Acupuncture works by manipulating the surface of the body to change the workings of the internal organs. Acupuncture has the ability to change body function on a deep level, but seeing an acupuncturist isn’t always convenient.

 However practicing self-massage or acupressure can also be an effective way to over come headaches, indigestion, constipation and a variety of other symptoms. Also, self-massage is good for general maintenance and removal of blockages that you happen to come across. Now remember acupressure or massage isn’t as strong as acupuncture so you might be massaging an area for at least five minutes a day until the issue it goes away. Although, it may take a while, your body will love it and over time self-massage will keep your body stronger and healthier then it would be with out it.

So how do you know if you have a blockage? Applying a little pressure with a couple of your fingers to areas all over your body will help you find tender areas that you may have not known you had. Then applying light pressure to these areas for at least 5 minutes a day will help release them. Don’t put so much pressure that it hurts to much, but just enough to make a little difference. You can either apply direct pressure with your fingers or pressure while move your fingers in a circular motion, you can use your whole and apply pressure or you can squeeze the area. The method depends upon the area and what you feel is best.

Some common areas of tenderness are around the eyes, in the eyebrows.  Over time rubbing the eyebrows can lead to improved vision. Rubbing the area between the eyebrows can improve frontal headaches and lower stress.

To help with digestion after a big meal, massaging the area just below the knee on the outside of the leg always works, this area isn’t usually tender, but after a few minutes of massage you should hear gurgling in your belly. For constipation massaging your belly from right to left in a circular motion at least 50 times slowly and with a comfortable pressure should help move things along, although with issues like constipation it is more important to have a proper diet.

I have a habit of massaging my hands, fingers and squeezing my fingertips, the hands are a microcosmic system of the whole body. A few minutes of massage a day and I will have improved energy flow through every part of me. The ears and feet are also microcosmic systems of the body. Self-massage is an important key to help keep and maintain health and well being.

Thanks for reading!