Acupressure Therapy Overview
Acupressure and acupuncture are two prominent therapies in the realm of alternative medicine, practiced worldwide with varying degrees of popularity and acceptance. Both therapies focus on the concept of energy flow in the body and aim to restore balance to treat various ailments. Additionally, there are several related therapies, including Sujok acupressure, Ayurvedic acupressure, electro-acupuncture, and others that have been developed over time.
While acupuncture involves inserting needles into specific points on the body, acupressure uses finger, thumb, or object pressure to stimulate the same points. This stimulation helps correct energy imbalances that are believed to cause disease. Acupressure is non-invasive compared to acupuncture and offers a pain-reducing alternative, although both therapies are considered effective.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Roots
Acupressure and acupuncture are believed to have originated in China around 2000–3000 B.C. They are based on the principle that energy, or "Qi," flows through meridians in the body. Any disruption in this flow can lead to illness. Acu points along these meridians help regulate energy flow, and applying pressure or needles to these points restores balance, promoting healing. TCM forms the foundation for both therapies, and they have been used for millennia to treat a wide range of physical and mental health issues.
Sujok Acupressure
A relatively new form of acupressure, Sujok acupressure, developed in 1987 by Prof. Park Jae Woo of Korea, focuses on the hands and feet as microcosms of the entire body. This therapy, practiced at Acupressure Research, Training & Treatment Sansthan, provides the same benefits as traditional acupuncture and acupressure but simplifies treatment by targeting the hands and feet. The therapy is non-invasive and convenient, making it widely popular in India, thanks to efforts by the Sansthan.
Other Acu Therapies:
- Magneto, Seed, and Color Therapies: These therapies involve the use of micro magnets, seeds, or colors to stimulate acu points instead of pressure or needles. Each method has its unique advantages, and the Sansthan has successfully incorporated them into its practice.
- Ayurvedic Acupressure: The Sansthan has developed a purely Indian version of acupressure based on Ayurvedic principles. This method, distinct from Chinese meridians, uses the ten elements of Ayurveda to restore balance, with acu points located on the fingers and toes.
- Yogic Acupressure: This therapy integrates the ancient Indian concept of chakras with acupressure, allowing for the treatment of various ailments by stimulating chakra locations on the palms.
- Electro-Acupuncture According to Voll (EAV): Developed by Dr. Reinhold Voll in the mid-20th century, this therapy uses electrical currents to stimulate acu points, scientifically validating the energy flow concept.
- Reflexology: Reflexology predates Sujok acupressure and involves the treatment of various ailments through pressure on 38 points on the hands and feet that correspond to different body parts. However, Sujok acupressure's broader scope has largely replaced reflexology at the Sansthan.
Each of these therapies offers unique benefits, and together they provide a comprehensive approach to holistic healing at the Acupressure Research, Training & Treatment Sansthan.
