When the weather becomes cold and the snowflakes begin to fall, it’s safe to say that winter has finally arrived. For many, winter means retreating to warmer areas of the world and taking that long awaited vacation. However, many others don’t have the luxury of taking a break or they live in areas where the weather can be brutal. Regardless of where one lives, there are numerous ways to stay healthy during the cold winter months.
Acupuncture and East Asian Medicine (EAM) can provide wellness throughout the season of winter. And if you are unable to actually get treatments by a licensed acupuncturist, you can still get the benefits of several different acupressure points. There are points that boost immunity, help stop a cough, reduce a fever and increase overall longevity. Applying pressure to these various points is a great way to stay healthy and well.
One of the best immune boosting points is known as large intestine 11. It is located on the large intestine energetic pathway that runs up the arm and ends near the nose. Large intestine 11 can be located by flexing the arm. The point is located at the lateral or outer end of the crease created by the bending of the arm. Applying pressure to this point can reduce a fever, boost overall immunity and decrease inflammation.
Lung 7 is another point located on the arm that will help during the winter months. Lung 7 is located on the medial (inner) side of the arm, about 1.5 inches from the wrist crease, on the bony protuberance known as the styloid process. This point is great for relieving a runny nose, body aches, chills, fever, sneezing, coughing and a sore throat. It can also be pressed to boost the energy of the lung energetic meridian to help prevent getting sick.
The next point is known as the longevity point in traditional Chinese medicine. Stomach 36 is located on the lateral side of the lower leg, about 4 finger-breadths from the lower border of the patella or kneecap. This point is considered an overall energy and immune-boosting point. It can help with digestive issues, such as diarrhea, that are sometimes associated with a cold or the flu.
Spleen 6 is another excellent point to utilize. This point is located on the medial (inner) side of the lower leg, approximately 4 finger-breadths above the top edge of the malleolus or ankle bone. This point is specifically used to tonify or boost the digestive system. As science has discovered, most of our immunity begins in the gut. So having a healthy gut, means having a strong immune system.
Lastly, is a point located between the eyebrows known as Yin Tang. This point is wonderful for relieving sinus pressure, helping with watery eyes and decreasing stress, which may allow for better sleep. And everybody knows that quality sleep is vital when fighting a cold or trying to prevent one.
Utilization of these various points throughout the winter months can help everybody stay healthy and avoid the common cold or the flu. And you can never overdo it with acupressure. So get to pressing and here’s to your health!