What is Acupressure?
Acupressure is a Chinese form of energy medicine that applies pressure to acu-points on the surface of the body. The purpose of acupressure is to stimulate the body’s natural self-healing capacity and to get the energy (known as “chi”) flowing again in a balanced way through the “meridians,” or energy pathways, of the body.
While Western medicine deals with what is most often visible and measurable, Chinese medicine also deals with what moves through the body in a way less visible to untrained eyes. The Chinese hold that chi exists in all parts of the body. There is nothing that chi does not affect. Chi flows through specific, though invisible, conduits or channels called meridians which are found throughout the body. A network of twelve major meridian channels are connected to the twelve major organ systems.
According to traditional theory, when chi becomes depleted or accumulates in excess along an energy channel, stimulation of certain points close to the surface of the body can help unblock and regulate the flow of energy. Acupressure is the application of pressure to these points. When chi does not flow properly along a meridian, disease can result.
What are the benefits of doing Acupressure?
Like acupuncture (but without the use of needles), acupressure “may stimulate the production of endorphins, the body’s natural opiates, to control pain. The release of endorphins also leads to the release of cortisol, the body’s own anti-inflammatory chemical. Similarly, the release helps regulate nerve function, strengthen resistance to disease, and even make joints more flexible. In addition, the actual pressings applied to the body increase blood and lymph circulation, removing metabolic wastes and bringing fresh nutrients to the muscles while relieving tension [and promoting wellness]” (M. Knaster, Discovering the Body’s Wisdom).
What is a typical session like?
The client, remaining fully clothed, lies on his or her back on a massage table during the treatment. The practitioner presses in a sequential pattern over specific parts of the body for different treatments. Specific treatment patterns are selected based on symptoms that are presented. Treatment sessions are generally 1 1/2 hours in length for a typical session, including time to process the session.
Guidelines for Treatment:
- It is best not to eat or drink for one hour prior to a session.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to facilitate ease of treatment.
- Please arrive on time to allow us to use your session appointment fully.
If you must cancel a session, the courtesy of a 24-hour notice is required or half-payment for cancellation is expected.
Scheduling & Fee Structure
Bodywork is done by appointment only. Contact Cynthia at 757-625-6103 or email heartliving@cox.net.
2 hours……………………….$190
1.5 hours…………………… $145
All first sessions are 2 hrs.
Cynthia’s Background: See About Cynthia