IRONWORKS ONLINE | Mind and Body

WHAT IS ACUPRESSURE?

Acupressure is a time-old healing tradition of Oriental descent. Acupressure is based on the medical philosophy that the human body is a system of connecting energy grid systems called meridians. When one of these energy flow lines is "blocked" from disease or injury, the entire body is effected. Similiarly, by stimulating the acupressure points on the meridians enhanced health and wellbeing will be created. These energy flow lines are like the telephone network system.

If for example, you were making a call from Tucson to Australia, the call may go through several stops like Tucson to Philadelphia to perhaps London and then finally to Australia. Likewise, there are many energy highways in the body that are connected through the more than 365 acupressure/acupuncture points. There are acupressure points literally on every part of your body that can be stimulated to bring a multitude of benefits.

By stimulating the appropriate points, there will be increased energy and stamina and a more efficient recovery from the activity.

HOW IS ACUPRESSURE USEFUL IN ENHANCING THE BODY'S NATURAL ABILITY TO BE MORE ENERGETIC AND TO COMBAT FATIGUE?

Acupressure has been utulized by many professional and Olympic sports teams and the casual sports enthusiast. Acupressure partially works by stimulating one of the body's natural neurochemicals, called endorphins. Also, acupressure locally increases the blood supply, washing away waste products caused by overexertion.

Acupressure is most helpful in relaxing stiff and overused muscles and tendons and will stimulate bone and tissue growth. In short, acupressure, while it is not a miracle therapy, is very useful as one modality in a carefully planned out personal sports/acitivity enhancement program.

Self- Acupressure Strategies:

Pre-Activity

Acupressure is a valuable pre-activity warm-up tool. In addition to increasing energy and local blood flow, it is useful as a focusing technique for the upcoming sport activity.

Enhancement Technique 1

Squeeze the left thumb in a firm and comfortable manner while taking several deep breaths. After two minutes of squeezing that thumb, squeeze the other thumb. Notice the breath becoming deeper and more regular. Focus on the upcoming activity and visualize the much needed oxygen beginning to flow to the muscles and brain.
Try squeezing your middle toes on the feet. These are important points to help circulate the energy in the body. Many of us also have cold and stiff feet and this gentle massage to the toes and feet will help bring warm blood throughout the body.
A gentle circular massage to the area between your eyebrows is very useful in bringing focus to your eyes and intention. As your massage this area, allow the breath to become more even and relaxed. Continue to focus on the upcoming activity and visualize blood saturating your muscles. This is also very effective after activity. Visualize the blood washing away waste products from your muscles and tissues. A gently tugging to the ears is also invigorating.

Enhancement Technique 2

There is an excellent point on the outer leg which is most valuable in providing an increased ability to walk and run. Oral Chinese tradition states that this point can provide an additional three miles of walking and travelling. A powerful point for additional energy and endurance.

Gently rub these points on the right and left legs in a circular manner for 5 SECONDS as you inhale. Now relax and discontinue the circular movement for 5 SECONDS as you exhale. Repeat this alternating rubbing process for several minutes.
Quick Find Location: If the palm of the hand is placed over the knee cap, the point located where the middle finger ends.

Post-Activity Cool Down

Technique:
Kidney Rubdown & Empowerment Energetics

The kidneys are very valuable in maintaining the energy of the body and in the overall function. The following technique is very valuable as aid to building and maintaining natural energy and preventing fatigue.

Step 1.

Gently rub the area over the kidneys in a circular manner for 5 SECONDS as you inhale. Now relax and discontinue the circular movement for 5 SECONDS as you exhale. The kidneys are at the lower back area and can be easily reached by placing your thumbs on the top of the pelvis while placing your wide open hand on the lower back.
Repeat this alternating rubbing process for several minutes.
Rub in a clockwise direction while visualizing and sending healing intentions and warm energies to the kidneys and thoroughout the entire body.
Visualize the strengthening of your will and determination.
The color associated with the Kidneys in Oriental Medicine is black, much like the color of the bottom of the oceans.
Visualize the color black during the inhalation.

Step 2.

Gently rub these powerful Kidney points on the back of the legs in a circular manner for 5 SECONDS as you inhale. Now relax and discontinue the circular movement for 5 SECONDS as you exhale. Repeat this alternating rubbing process for several minutes. These points will stimulate the Kidneys and provide valuable energetic resources to the entire body.

The acupressure enhancement strategies can be engaged daily as an overall body and energy tonifier. Remember to engage the acupressure point gently and to deepen the breath. There are many books on acupressure, Shiatsu and sports massage and your pre/post activity regime can be complemented by this additional information.

Naturally, if any discomfort or any other symptom that you are not familiar with develops, please discontinue and consult the appropriate health professional. Acupressure is very safe and effective and each of us has unique personal health histories and reactions.

Dr. Elliot Diamond practices Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation in Philadelphia, utilizing traditional medical strategies,
acupuncture and rehabilitation. He is an author of a book on Muscle Testing and Corrective Exercise. He also teaches
Oriental Medicine to individuals seeking to utilize the ancient wisdom as a tool for personal empowerment and enhanced wellbeing.
He will be teaching educational classes at Old City Ironworks.

Learn about Oriental Medicine from Elliot Diamond! Visit: www.midashealth.com

Editorial Content by Elliot Diamond | Web Design by Eric Z