Can acupressure relieve stress?
Sessions generally last between an hour and an hour and a half, during which clients lie still with the needles inserted.
A traditional treatment involving tiny needles inserted into the ear may offer relief from stress and anxiety, according to Benoni acupressure practitioner Nisha Munsamy. The technique, known as ear acupressure, employs a five-point method that targets areas believed to be linked to the nervous system and various organs in the body.
Munsamy states that the ears serve as a "map" of the body, with specific points associated with mental clarity, relaxation, and vital organs such as the liver, lungs, and kidneys. One point is connected to the vagus nerve, a key player in stress and relaxation responses. Munsamy explains that even the mere thought of having a needle inserted can help distract the mind, allowing clients to momentarily escape stressors.
A typical session lasts between one and a half hours, during which clients remain still while the needles remain in place. Ear acupressure is also utilized by individuals attempting to quit smoking, as well as in rehabilitation programs to manage cravings. Beyond stress reduction, Munsamy has applied the treatment to patients undergoing chemotherapy for symptom relief, including nausea and loss of appetite.
She has also worked with students, observing improvements in their swimming performances and academic pursuits. Many clients report feeling significantly more relaxed after an ear acupressure session, according to Munsamy. The practitioner sometimes combines ear acupressure with hypnotherapy, particularly for clients dealing with severe stress or those trying to quit smoking.
Additionally, facial acupressure serves as an alternative to cosmetic injections for those concerned about wrinkles and aging, effectively giving a natural "Botox" effect. Munsamy first encountered acupressure in 2020 while seeking alternative treatments for her young daughter's migraines. Concerned about her daughter's dependence on medication, Munsamy researched natural remedies and found that the ear acupressure treatment proved highly effective for her daughter, with migraines diminishing in frequency.
For Munsamy, acupressure represents one approach to overall wellness, emphasizing the body's inherent healing capabilities over reliance on medications and chemicals.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
