Acupressure comes from traditional Chinese practice. Instead of needles, it uses the fingertips or a small tool to apply steady pressure to specific points on the body. Today many people use it simply as a calming, mindful way to relax tension in the face, head and neck.
Acupressure is a traditional self-care practice. It is not a medical treatment, and we make no claims that it treats any condition. What it does offer is a pause: a few slow breaths and a bit of pressure where you tend to hold tension.
Six traditional points to know
- Yintang (the "third eye" point): in the small space between the eyebrows. Many people hold tension here when concentrating or frowning.
- Taiyang (temples): in the soft hollow at the side of the forehead, just beyond the outer edge of the eyebrow.
- Zanzhu: at the inner end of each eyebrow, where the brow meets the bridge of the nose.
- Jiache (jaw): over the thick chewing muscle at the angle of the jaw. Clench your teeth and you will feel it bulge. Then relax.
- Yingxiang: beside the base of the nostrils, in the crease where the nose meets the cheek.
- Fengchi: at the base of the skull, in the hollows either side of the spine, where the neck muscles attach.
How to press
- Start with clean hands and, if you like, a drop of facial oil.
- Sit comfortably and relax your shoulders.
- Press with a fingertip or the small tip of the Rebel Pen (the 2mm tip suits small points, the 6mm tip broader ones).
- Use light to medium pressure. It should feel pleasantly firm, never sharp or painful.
- Hold for 5 to 10 seconds while you breathe out slowly, then release gently.
- Repeat two or three times per point, then smooth the area with your palm.
Fitting it into your day
- Morning: a minute at the temples and brow before you start work.
- Afternoon screen break: jaw and neck points to release a clenched day.
- Evening: end your ritual with slow pressure at Yintang and the temples.
Acupressure pairs well with movement. Try a few forehead and brow exercises first, then release with pressure. For the full routine order, see Train, Then Release.
Be careful
- Never press on the eyeball or hard under the eye. Keep pressure light around the eyes.
- Avoid broken, inflamed or sunburnt skin, and recent injections or procedures.
- Skip acupressure if you are pregnant, or have a medical condition, without checking with your doctor first.
- Stop if anything hurts, or if you feel dizzy.
The takeaway: facial acupressure is a slow, gentle habit. Treat it as a moment of calm and you will get the most from it.
This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice.
