Acupressure: An Ancient Healing Art Acupressure is an ancient
healing art. Acupressure techniques were first practiced in
India and China. Practitioners apply pressure by using their
fingers, thumbs or elbows, (and sometimes even simple tools such
as a pencil or metal ball), on certain acupressure points, in
order to relieve pain or to treat certain ailments. According to
ancient Oriental medicine, the body’s health is based on the
smooth flow of Qi (energy) through channels which run below the
surface of the skin. These channels are called Meridians, and
each is linked to a specific organ, such as heart, liver and
kidneys. Each Meridian also has pressure points called acu-
points located on them. When these Meridians are blocked, free
flow of Qi is not possible, leading to various health problems.
Depending upon the ailment, practitioners diagnose which
Meridian is affected and apply pressure on that related acu-
point, in order to relieve the congestion. Pressure is applied
either by massaging or by pressing