Are you interested in using either Acupuncture or Acupressure to manage your holistic health issues? If so, are you wondering which one is best for you? Let’s talk about the benefits of each of these modalities, as well as important differences. I also want to dispel some misinformation along the way! Read on or watch the video below to learn more about Acupuncture vs. Acupressure and decide which one is better for you!
What’s The Role of Acupuncture and Acupressure in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Before we talk about the comparison between Acupuncture and Acupressure, it’s important that we take a step back. What these modalities are and what their role are in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
Acupuncture is 1 of the 5 main branches of TCM, along with Dietetics, Herbology, Tuina Massage, and Qigong. Acupressure uses the acupoints from Acupuncture, but is a Tuina Massage technique, so is a combination of the two.
Both modalities stimulate the movement of Qi (vital energy) along channels in the body that link up with the vital organs they’re named after. When Qi is moving freely, we have no pain and are in good general health. When we experience pain or disease, this is indicative of Qi being stuck or vacant in a certain area. Acupuncture and Acupressure regulate the Qi in these regions to restore health and vitality.
What Do Acupuncture And Acupressure Help With?
Acupuncture and Acupressure are extremely effective in treating you if you have an existing health issue, such as:
- Pain and inflammation
- Sleep disturbances
- Emotional instability
- Hormonal imbalances
- Fertility
- Cell integrity and function
- Immune support
- Metabolic issues
- Growth and Development
- Autoimmunity and Allergies
- Stress and Anxiety
- Psychological health
- Supporting all vital organs and physiological systems
- Relating to ourselves & others better
- Deepening spiritual life
Even more phenomenal, Acupuncture and Acupressure, as well as other aspects of TCM, are preventative health measures. With regular treatment, they help us stay healthy and free of disease!
Difference Between Acupuncture and Acupressure
Let’s talk about what makes Acupuncture and Acupressure unique. Take note of what sounds most appealing to you, or what you think would work best for your circumstances.
With Acupuncture, it’s performed by a Licensed Acupuncturist or a Medical Doctor. I have a strong opinion that you will get a more well-rounded experienced from a classically-trained Chinese Medicine practitioner. Some Western medicine practitioners will only treat pain conditions (and that is usually all that insurance covers). Disposable, stainless-steel needles are used to gently pierce the skin and access the Qi. It’s usually painless, but sometimes that’s unavoidable. There’s a chance of a punctured lung if the practitioner is careless when needling the torso. But if they know what they’re doing, that is easily avoidable and the only risks are slight bleeding and bruising. Because of the pain issue and fear of needles, some people have a strong aversion to Acupuncture. But if you have no issue with them, this can be deeply relaxing!
Acupressure, on the other hand, can be performed by anyone and even on oneself. Of course it’s best to first learn from a practitioner and understand that your intention while doing it is what’s most powerful. You can use your hands or shonishin tools. If you’re doing it on yourself, then you’re not completely relaxing. And it usually takes longer than Acupuncture to receive the desired effect with Acupressure. However that doesn’t matter so much when you are able to access this healing skill whenever you want and have complete control over your treatment.
Which is Best – Acupuncture or Acupressure?
Of course, that question is best answered by you!
If you would like to leave your house, rest for an hour on a table, want quick results, and don’t mind needles – then Acupuncture is best for you.
However, my own personal preference is Acupressure, and for many reasons:
- I love teaching people this skill so they feel more empowered with their self-care and healing abilities. Especially with moms – by just teaching her acupressure I’m treating the whole family!
- I also love incorporating the use of essential oils with Acupressure which accentuates the effectiveness of both.
- I’m able to do Acupressure with clients in our online Health Coaching sessions to help them resolve the energetic, emotional, and spiritual root of their health conditions.
I hope that this information was insightful and that it makes you want to try Acupuncture or Acupressure! As mentioned above, I do Acupressure in my Health Coaching sessions and currently have spots in my schedule for new clients. I love helping women with stress, anxiety, gut health, hormones, emotional stability, trauma, spiritual guidance and navigating relationships affected by their health. We do this in conjunction with Human Design. You can schedule a free 15 minute call with me here if you’d like to talk briefly about your holistic health issues and we can decide if we’re a good fit for each other.
Well wishes to you and your family!
