Menstrual cramps in women is a common problem. Almost 90 % of women go through this exhausting cycle every month and then forget it once the cycle is over. A woman’s body undergoes a lot of physiological and metabolic changes during this time.
The Three main stages in a woman’s life when she experiences drastic hormonal changes are- puberty, pregnancy and menopause. In most of the cases a woman takes these hormonal change symptoms in her stride, but in rare cases she experiences symptoms like cramps, bloated stomach, headaches, nausea and more.
Women often take to pain killers to alleviate the cramps, but little do they realize that it might have some serious side effects. But how many of them actually address the root cause of this problem? Women usually have to deal with many precautions while they are in this risqué period. Menstrual disorders are caused due to various abnormalities in the body like uterine fibroids, malignancies, pre-pregnancy bleeding, PCOS (Poly cystic Ovarian Syndrome) et al.
Acupressure is an ancient Chinese practice of channelizing blood flow, through a positive life force known as “Chi” which clears all the blocked meridian points in the body. This is the universal ‘life force’ that travels around our bodies and is present in everything. Analysing these key pressure points and gauging the exact pressure and duration of acupressure to be applied on these vital points is what acupressure is all about.
- Adolescence
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Endometriosis
- Eating disorders
- Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism
- Perimenopause
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Pregnancy
There are the acupressure points for relieving PMS, Cramps and Menstrual Discomfort. Working on these points can help you get instant relief. You do not have to use all of these points. Using just one or two of them whenever you have a free hand can be effective.
Points (A) — Mansion Cottage
Location: In the pelvic area, in the middle of the crease where the leg joins the trunk of the body. This point is very important for releasing menstrual discomfort, cramps and abdominal discomfort.
Points (B) — Rushing Door
This point is in the pelvic area, in the middle of the crease where the leg joins the trunk of the body. This point is also very important for releasing menstrual discomfort, cramps and abdominal discomfort. Using light pressure, press on this spot toward the direction of your second toe for one minute. Increase your pressure as you feel comfortable. Repeat on your other foot or try to push on both feet at the same time.
Points (C) — Sea of Energy
This point is two finger widths below the belly button. Softly rubbing this point relieves PMS, menstrual cramps, reproductive problems, irregular vaginal discharge, irregular periods, and constipation, which increases menstrual pain.
Points (D) — The Returning Point
The Returning point is located two thumb widths away on either side of your abdomen, the Returning Point gets its name because it’s supposed to return your menstrual cycle to a normal rhythm and relieve cramps. Place your fingers at the pubic area above your genitals and lightly press until you feel your pubic bone. Move your fingers one thumb width above your pubic bone and then press at the points two thumb widths away on either side.
Points (E) — Sacral Points
This acupressure point is present on the sacrum (at the base of the spine right above the tall bone). It helps relieve menstrual cramps and lower back pain. Firm and steady stimulation of these sacral points – by lying down on your back with your hands, one on top of the other, under the base of the spine helps relax the uterus and relieve menstrual cramps.
Points (F) — Womb and Vitals
This point is located one to two finger widths outside the sacrum (the large bony area at the base of the spine) and midway between the top of the hipbone and the base of the buttocks. Benefits: Relieves pelvic tension, PMS, menstrual cramps, and urinary problems.
Points (G) — Three Yin Crossing
This point is located four finger widths above the inner ankle bone, close to the back of the shinbone. Stimulating these points relieves water retention, menstrual cramps, irregular vaginal discharge, and genital pain. A regular stimulation of this point can open all your clogged meridians and release proper blood flow by reducing menstrual cramps.
Points (H) — Grandfather Grandson
This point is located in the upper arch of the foot, one thumb width from the ball of the foot. Stimulating this point with your thumb relieves PMS, bloating, as well as menstrual and abdominal cramps. A gentle rubbing of this area gives you quick relief from menstrual pain.
Points (I)-Union Valley Point
This acupressure point is located in the fleshy joint between the thumb and index finger on both hands. Stimulating this point by applying pressure on the fleshy region helps in normalizing delayed and irregular periods, calms the uterine muscles and treats infertility. In addition, stimulating this point also relieves headache, shoulder pain, allergies, abdominal pain and constipation. This point should not be disturbed during pregnancy.
The best part about acupressure is that it’s totally non-invasive and can be easily learnt and practised at home. Just like yoga, its long term benefits are desirable and pleasant. Many people will not switch to acupressure for their health, but simply to relax and unwind themselves. Acupressure is no different – this is the ultimate remedy to get rid of tension and adapt a relaxing attitude. Grab life by its horns!
Please not that it is important to drink plenty of warm water after the acupressure massage, to help remove the toxic substances in our body. You should consult with a healthcare professional before practicing acupressure or starting any diet, exercise, or other medication programs. While it’s true that acupressure is a holistic therapy, there are certain situations when it has to be avoided. For instance, if someone has undergone a surgery, is pregnant or is suffering from a nervous disorder like ADD, ADHD or Multiple Sclerosis, then they should seriously consult a doctor before beginning acupressure for period pain.
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