Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but how we manage it can make all the difference in our physical and emotional well-being. If you’re looking for natural, accessible ways to reduce tension, improve your mood, and feel more grounded—without relying on medication or screens—acupressure offers a powerful self-care practice you can do anywhere.

Rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupressure uses the same points as acupuncture, but instead of needles, it relies on gentle, sustained pressure using your fingers, palms, or a soft object. Whether you’re sitting at your desk, riding the bus, or lying in bed, these five acupressure points can help you release stress and restore a sense of calm.

🌿 How Does Acupressure Work?

In TCM, energy—or Qi—flows through channels in the body known as meridians. Stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, or emotional overwhelm can block or stagnate this flow, leading to tension, anxiety, or even physical pain. Acupressure helps stimulate key points along these pathways to clear blockages, balance the nervous system, and promote relaxation.

The best part? It’s completely safe, easy to learn, and free.

🌟 5 Powerful Acupressure Points for Stress Relief

Below are five commonly used points to calm the mind, ease anxiety, and help your body release tension. Apply gentle but firm pressure with your fingers or thumb, and hold each point for 1–3 minutes while breathing slowly and deeply.

1. Yintang (Third Eye Point)

Location: Between the eyebrows, at the midpoint between the eyes
Benefits: Calms the spirit, soothes anxiety, helps with insomnia, and relieves frontal headaches

Often called the “Third Eye” in both Eastern and New Age traditions, this point is excellent for quieting a busy mind. Gently massage or press Yintang using small circular motions when you’re feeling overwhelmed or before bed.

Pro Tip: Use this point with your eyes closed in a dark room to enhance its calming effects.

2. Pericardium 6 (Neiguan)

Location: On the inside of the forearm, about three finger widths below the wrist crease, between two tendons
Benefits: Eases anxiety, relieves nausea, helps with palpitations and emotional tightness in the chest

PC6 is not only famous for preventing motion sickness—it’s also one of the best points for reducing emotional stress and balancing the Heart system in TCM.

How to Use: Press with your thumb while resting your arm on a table. Switch arms after a minute.

3. Large Intestine 4 (Hegu)

Location: On the back of the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger
Benefits: Releases muscle tension, soothes headaches, helps relieve emotional frustration

LI4 is a “go-to” point for stress-related headaches and neck/shoulder tension. It’s also a major point for moving stagnant Qi, which often builds up during times of emotional or mental pressure.

Caution: Do not use this point during pregnancy without professional supervision, as it can stimulate uterine contractions.

4. Liver 3 (Taichong)

Location: On the top of the foot, about two finger widths above the space between the first and second toes
Benefits: Regulates emotions, reduces irritability, supports the liver’s role in stress detoxification

In TCM, the Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi. When stressed, this Qi becomes stagnant, causing frustration, PMS, or mood swings. LV3 helps circulate this energy and restore balance.

How to Use: Sit cross-legged or on a chair, and massage both feet with thumbs in a firm but relaxing motion.

5. Ear Shen Men (Spirit Gate)

Location: In the upper-middle area of the ear, just inside the rim
Benefits: Calms the nervous system, improves sleep, reduces anxiety and panic

This point is commonly used in ear acupuncture, but it can be stimulated manually for powerful relaxation. It’s especially useful for emotional trauma, nervousness, or when you feel “on edge.”

How to Use: Gently press or rub the point using your index finger or thumb. You can even use small ear seeds (available online) for extended stimulation.

🧘 Tips for Making Acupressure Part of Your Routine

  • Consistency beats intensity: 2–3 minutes per point daily can make a big difference.

  • Breathe intentionally: Inhale through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth as you hold each point.

  • Use it as a transition tool: Try acupressure when shifting from work to relaxation, before sleep, or before a big event.

Final Thoughts

Stress may be a part of life, but suffering from it doesn’t have to be. Acupressure gives you a simple, empowering way to reclaim your calm—using nothing but your own hands and breath. Over time, these little moments of mindful pressure can help retrain your nervous system, soften chronic tension, and bring you back into balance.

If you’re interested in learning more about how acupuncture and TCM can help address chronic stress, anxiety, or burnout, feel free to reach out. I offer both in-person and virtual consultations to help guide you toward holistic healing.