For many people, the festive season means well-deserved getaways and visiting family and friends. This also means a fair few long, gruelling drives that can trigger motion sickness. No-one wants to arrive at Christmas lunch feeling nauseous.
Once motion sickness hits, it can be difficult to relieve. Luckily, pre-emptive acupressure can help to prevent motion sickness. Acupressure, like acupuncture, originates from Chinese medicine, but uses massage rather than needles to activate energy channels in the body.
How to activate each point
For the best results, take slow, calming breaths while applying pressure to each point. Do so in a comfortable and calm environment whenever possible, although these exercises can be done anywhere at any time. Remember that these pressure points are located on both the left and right sides of your body, so applying pressure to each side will deliver the best results. Mind Body Green recommends applying steady pressure to each point for 30 seconds to a minute. Leading up to a boat trip or long car ride, you can repeat these exercises three times daily for the best results. There are no negative side-effects of acupressure, although it’s best to consult your doctor before using them if you are pregnant, as some are ill-advised.
Where are the pressure points located?
Large Intestine 4
If you’re pregnant, give this one a miss. Also used to help ease headaches, this point can help to support healthy digestion, relieve stomach discomfort and nausea. To activate this ‘master point’ press your thumb and index finger into the webbing between the thumb and index finger of the opposite hand. This exercise is most effective when performed daily.
Pericardium 6
If you’ve ever worn a bracelet to help alleviate seasickness, it was probably designed to activate this pressure point. Applying pressure to the Pericardium 6 can help to ease an upset stomach and nausea. This point is located in your inner wrist. To activate it, apply pressure with a thumb or fingertips to the centre of your wrist, about two fingertips below the bend in your wrist.
Liver 3
This pressure point is thought to govern healthy blood flow, energy and emotions and is most effective when activated daily. The point lies between your big toe and your second toe. Apply gentle pressure.
Stomach 36
If you’re pregnant, give this one a miss. This point aids digestion, boosts energy and helps ease metabolic problems. On the lower edge of your knee, on the outside of your shin bone, apply pressure to the top of the leg muscle, just before it reaches your knee cap.
Gallbladder 20
It’s best to activate this headache easing point gently. Place your thumbs behind your ears and slowly move them down your neck until you find a groove on either side of your spine, just below your skull. Massage gently.
Do you experience motion sickness? What helps you find relief? Have you tried acupressure or acupuncture before?
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Disclaimer: This article contains general information about health issues and is not advice. For health advice, consult your medical practitioner.
