Acupressure and acupuncture are words that are very big and always seem to pop up when it comes to remedying methods naturally. Both find their very deep roots in traditional Chinese medicine and work for wellness but do so differently. If you have ever wondered about the difference between acupressure and acupuncture, here is a simple breakdown.
What is Acupressure?
Acupressure is a method applied to certain points on the body, known as acupoints. It is believed that if these points are pressed, one is capable of releasing tension, circulating blood more properly, and stimulating one's body to cure itself. Acupressure can be performed using the fingers, the palm of the hand, the elbow, or special tools.
Unlike acupuncture, it does not use needles. It is, therefore, ideal for any individual who might feel uneasy about the prospect of being pricked by needles but at the same time would like to experience the benefits that come from stimulating important points in the body.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture, on the other hand, is performed by inserting very fine needles into certain points within the body. These needles supposedly unblock pathways-or "meridians"-around which your body's energy-or Qi-can flow freely. Acupuncture restores balance, as does acupressure, to promote healing. The chief difference between acupuncture and acupressure is that acupuncture uses the insertion of needles, while in acupressure, manual pressure is used.
How Do They Work?
Both acupuncture and acupressure depend on the stimulation of certain points to attain wellness. As recorded by Chinese medicine, blocking of the body's energy is what leads to the occurrence of varied health conditions. The manipulation of the acupoints opens up blockages, hence allowing for the easy flow of energy with good overall health in effect.
Acupressure can easily be administered by oneself or by another person, but going to a professional is always advised. However, acupuncture involves inserting needles through the appropriate areas safely and effectively; it therefore requires a professional who is trained to do it.
Benefits of Acupressure
Acupressure works magic in mitigating tension, stress, and pain classes of symptoms without resorting to invasive procedures. It is one of the most common treatments for headaches and back pain and can even be employed for digestion problems. Even better, you could apply acupressure techniques to yourself, so this is a fairly accessible form of self-care. Acupuncture is often used for deeper chronic problems, such as arthritis, migraines, and even infertility. Some people like acupuncture more because the effects are stronger; others prefer acupressure because the procedure is softer.
Which One is Right for You?
Whether to opt for acupressure or acupuncture depends on your comfort level and health needs. You may opt for acupressure if you would want a form of treatment without needles. In that case, if you do not mind the needles and the problem you are facing is a bit serious, then acupuncture will be a better choice as the relief it provides is at a higher level and far more specific to your needs.
Conclusion
Both acupuncture and acupressure have their own advantages, and neither is truly more effective than the other. It totally depends on personal preference and what exactly you are looking to achieve from this form of therapy concerning healing and relief. Whether you stimulate with your hands or needles, both practices put much emphasis on accelerating your recovery process by a natural and integrative approach. If one is a beginner with such practices, then acupressure can be a soft introduction. Try it and see how the body responds, then go for acupuncture if one wants to.
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