Self-Massage Techniques for Pain and Anxiety
Many of our clients, especially those with chronic pain issues, benefit from therapeutic massage. During this time of responsible social distancing, many massage therapists are not seeing clients. Fortunately, there are self-massage techniques that can be utilized by the homebound, which can bridge the treatment gap and provide pain-relieving and immune-boosting benefits.
Acupressure
Acupressure is a traditional Chinese practice that involves gentle pressure at designated areas throughout the body. The pressure points are said to reduce pain, restore balance, and improve energy flow. Some of the acupressure points are also said to boost immunity, which is important during this pandemic. The kidney points, which are located immediately below the sternum, approximately one inch from midline bilaterally, are important immunity areas and are purported to govern our overall strength of spirit. The kidney points can be massaged with circular pressure, steady pressure, or tapping.
Ayurvedic practice, which is ancient traditional Indian medicine, recognizes the importance of the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. These areas are thought to have connections to the lungs and respiratory system. Stimulating the hand directly above the thumb muscle and the upper midsole portion of the foot may ease breathing.
A palm width below the patella, or knee cap, and two-finger widths out from the tibia (shin bone) is another recommended pressure point, known as Three Mile. Stimulation of this area is said to have numerous benefits, including regulation of immune system function, reduction of depression, improvement of digestion, reduction of fever, and relief from shortness of breath.
In the elbow area, at a point illustrated here, there is the Crooked Pond Point. Pressure applied to this area is believed to help strengthen immunity and may treat a fever. The area is also related to colon health and improved digestion.
Finally, in the region slightly below the middle of the breast bone is a point called The Upper Sea of Qi. Acupressure to this point is believed to regulate the thymus gland and increase immune function. It also is supposed to relieve stress and anxiety.
The Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system consists of a highway of lymph nodes, which are crucial to fighting infection. The lymphatic system also cleans out waste. Gentle massage may help fluid travel through the lymphatic system, thereby theoretically boosting immunity.
Dry Brushing
Dry brushing is a technique performed with a soft bristle brush, preferably made from natural materials. A loofah or cotton gloves can also be used for gentler exfoliation. Move upward from the feet and hands, using repetitive, gentle strokes toward the heart. For the long bones of the arms and legs, use long strokes. At the joints, belly, and chest areas, perform circular motions. Dry brushing is recommended before showering, which will then rinse away the dislodged skin cells.
Addition Options for Lymphatic Self-Massage
With very gentle circular motions, massage the lymph nodes just below the jawbone.
Wedge a tennis ball under your armpit, and pump gently against the side of your body.
Tools for Self-Massage
Below are products for purchase that can assist with home self-massage:
The Melt Method Bundle
Dual Point Massager
WAHL Deep Tissue Percussion Massager
Making the Best of Things
While it may be true that nothing can match the therapeutic benefits of a professional massage, starting or continuing practice of home self-massage may help ease pain, anxiety, and tension until the Covid-19 situation normalizes.
Elk Grove Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a personal injury lawyer in Elk Grove. Negligent and careless driving can cause collisions that result in injuries. If you have suffered injuries because of a careless driver and are seeking free, friendly advice, phone us at (916) 694-0002 or (800) 404-5400.
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Photo Attribution: Pixabay user Andreas160578
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