What if you could help support your blood pressure right now, using only your own two hands? No pills, no equipment. It might sound too good to be true, but for thousands of years, people have used acupressure to help with all kinds of ailments.
In this video, I'm going to show you 3 of the best, science-backed acupressure points for managing high blood pressure. I'll show you where they are, how they work, and how you can use them right at home, starting today.
So, let's start with the basics. What is acupressure? It’s a traditional technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to promote relaxation and wellness. And now, modern science is starting to understand why it's so beneficial.
You don't have to take my word for it. A 2023 systematic review by Andi Masyitha Irwan and fellow researchers found that acupuncture and acupressure can be effective at helping reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension. They specifically highlighted the points we're talking about today.
Now, a critical disclaimer. It is absolutely essential to remember that this is a complementary therapy. It is meant to work with your current treatment plan, not as a replacement for any medication or advice from your doctor. Please, continue following your medical professional's guidance.
How Does Acupressure Work?
It's a great question: how does pressing a point on your foot possibly help your blood pressure? It's all about your nervous system. When you apply firm, steady pressure, your body has a complex reaction.
It triggers the release of endorphins—your body's natural 'feel-good' chemicals. These endorphins have a remarkable effect. They help your nervous system, your muscular system, and your blood vessels to relax. When your blood vessels relax, your blood pressure naturally decreases.
Okay, this is the 'how-to' part, and it's simple. The technique for all three points is the same. You're going to apply firm, deep pressure for about 3 minutes in total. You can use your thumb or even a couple of fingers.
A great, effective way to do this is to press and hold the point for 5 seconds... then release the pressure for 1 second. Just repeat this 5-second hold and 1-second release pattern about 30 times. That will get you right to the 3-minute mark.
For the best results, try to do this 2 to 3 times per day.
I know what you're thinking... "another thing to remember to do!" An easy way to remember is to 'stack' this onto a habit you already have. For example, do it while you're having your morning coffee, or in the evening while you're sitting and watching the news. A few minutes is all it takes.
Alright, our first point is Liver 3, or 'Great Rushing'. I like to call this the 'de-stress' point because it's famous for relieving tension and irritability.
Now, let's find it. It's on the top of your foot. Place your finger in the webbing between your big toe and your second toe. Now, slide your finger up toward your leg, about 1.5 to 2 inches, until you feel a tender depression right between the two foot bones. That's Liver 3.
Why this point? Because it's used to relieve stress, tension, anxiety, and even headaches—all things that we know can make your blood pressure climb.
Our second point is Heart 7, or 'Spirit Gate'. This is the ultimate calming point, and it's fantastic for anxiety and especially for sleep.
Here’s how to find it. Find the main crease on the palm-side of your wrist. Follow the line of your pinky finger down to that crease. You'll find a small hollow or depression, right on the outside edge of that tendon. It's often a little tender. That's Heart 7.
This point is used to reduce anxiety, promote deep relaxation, and improve sleep. If you're someone who lies awake with racing thoughts or disturbed dreams, this is a wonderful point to use.
A common complaint from people with high blood pressure is poor sleep, which then makes your blood pressure worse the next day. It's a vicious cycle. Try pressing Heart 7 on both wrists for 3 minutes as you're lying in bed. Many people find it helps quiet their racing thoughts and lets them drift off much easier.
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Our final point for today is Kidney 3, or 'Supreme Stream'. Think of this as your body's 'recharge' point.
It's on your inner ankle. Find that prominent inner ankle bone. Now, find your Achilles tendon, that big tendon on the back of your heel. Kidney 3 is in the tender depression right in the middle, between your ankle bone and your Achilles tendon.
This point is used to support your foundational energy, boost vitality, and help with chronic fatigue and even low back pain. All three of these points work together beautifully to calm your nervous system, which is a key benefit for lowering blood pressure.
I had a client, let's call him 'John,' in his late 50s who was always stressed from work. His BP was consistently high. He started using the Liver 3 and Heart 7 points during his stressful work calls. After a month, he not only felt calmer, but his daily readings were more stable. It didn't replace his medication, but it became a powerful tool he could control.
So there you have it: Liver 3 for stress, Heart 7 for calm, and Kidney 3 for energy. Three simple, science-backed points you can use anywhere, anytime.
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Stay healthy, and I'll see you in the next video.
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