Acupressure is often confused with acupuncture, which involves applying needles into the pressure points. Acupressure doesn’t involve needles, only gentle massage of the body's pressure points - acupressure is a needle free zone, so have no fear!

Acupressure has proven to be effective in treating health conditions such as back pain, osteoarthritis, headaches and menopause symptoms. It has been practiced for centuries, in fact, it is believed that acupressure originated around 100 BC, as part of Chinese traditional medicine.

In the past decade, acupressure has become increasingly popular in the rest of the world and it is now a well-known treatment option. But still, we often find people stressing over their first acupressure session. That’s why we’ll be debunking 10 myths that will put your mind at ease so you can experience all the benefits and less of the worry!

1. Acupressure is extremely painful

Everyone’s pain levels are different and one might experience pain differently than others, but it’s safe to say that acupressure is painless. After a session, you might feel soreness at the pressure points but that is nothing to worry about. It’s all part of the process! Acupressure works by moving energy that is blocked at each pressure point, as the blocked energy is released you’ll begin to feel more energised and refreshed.

2. Acupressure results aren’t instant

Another myth is that results of acupressure aren’t instant and it takes a long time to finally start seeing results. This is not true, you can start experiencing the benefits of acupressure after just one session. Depending on the severity of your problem and how your body reacts to the treatment, results can appear quickly. You may even experience immediate relief from a symptom, such as headaches or back pain. An acupressure massage is designed to relax you and act as a natural form of pain relief, helping to alleviate symptoms.

3. Acupressure doesn’t work

Then there’s the belief that acupressure doesn’t actually work at all. We can tell you confidently: it definitely works, and there’s clinical studies to evidence it! A 2016 study found that women experienced a higher sleep quality when performing acupressure on themselves prior to going to bed. So if sleep quality is something you struggle with acupressure could be the answer.

Give acupressure a chance, go to that first session and experience for yourself. Once you start experiencing the amazing results, you will love it as much as we do. 

4. It’s part of ancient folklore and nonsense

Acupressure is definitely ancient, as it has been around for over 2000 years. However, saying that it’s folklore, nonsense or not legitimate is absolutely not true. Even though acupressure descends from Chinese philosophy, the principles of acupressure are firmly grounded in science. In 2017 Columbia University recommended acupressure as therapy for patients having chemotherapy, due to the scientific benefits that acupressure has on reducing feelings of nausea, high blood pressure and sleep quality.

5. Acupressure conflicts with other medicines

People often believe that acupressure conflicts with other medicines, but they are very wrong. Acupressure can be practiced whilst taking other medication without problem. To elaborate on this, acupressure is a form of holistic treatment, which is preventative but can also target an existing problem. 

6. Acupressure is magic and a form of voodoo

Some people might think that acupressure is some vague form of magic or voodoo and overall very spiritual. When in fact, acupressure is actually very tangible. The body has 361 pressure points, applying pressure to these points through an acupressure massage will help to move the blocked energy around the body. As this blocked energy moves, health and energy levels become more balanced.

7. Only pain can be treated with acupressure

Next in line, there’s the myth that acupressure can only treat pain. However, acupressure has proven to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, stress, nausea and gynaecological conditions. So no, acupressure is definitely not only for treating pain. 

8. Acupressure has a lot of side effects

You don’t have to worry about acupressure having side effects. After a session, you can easily return to work or continue your day. The only thing you will be experiencing is a positive one: pain relief!

9. You can’t just stop with acupressure

Once you start acupressure, it’s believed that you’ll have to continue forever to make the results last - now that’s a myth for sure. People with minor pains or issues might benefit from acupressure within only a few sessions, whereas others with bigger issues might need eight to ten sessions to see improvement. However, there’s no need to continue with acupressure once you’re feeling better, this isn’t a life long investment.

10. Acupressure is extremely expensive

Finally, let’s talk about money. The price for an acupressure session ranges between £45-£70 for the first session and £30 -£50 for subsequent ones. You might only need one or two sessions, but you could need more. What if we tell you that you can practice acupressure with the help of an Acupressure Mat, not to be confused with an acupuncture mat as these don’t exist!

The acupressure mat works in a similar way as traditional acupressure. You lay down on the mat for ten to twenty minutes and the pressure points made out of plastic will release muscle tension and relax your body. Lay back, relax your mind and feel your body heal and rejuvenate.