How many of us have the luxury of time for stretching our muscles out or doing something to unwind on a regular basis? In fact, it’s often the opposite. We’re either haring around like there’s no tomorrow or cemented to the spot staring at a screen these days. Neither of which is conducive to relieving muscle tension or having a clear, calm mind-set. In fact, stress and muscle tension are the norm, and many of us don’t even realise how bad it’s got until we’re finally forced to stop.

But if we want to stay healthy in body and mind, it’s important to give ourselves some much-needed self-care every-day. The excuses we come up with though! Not enough time, chores to do, need to earn some money, got to pick the kids up….the list goes on. Yet, we all find time for scrolling through Facebook or Instagram, don’t we?  

The trick to self-care is to integrate it into daily life. You don’t even have to do it for long to make a difference. Acupressure is one of those things that can relieve muscle tension and help you feel more relaxed in a relatively short space of time. Read on to find out how this ancient therapy can help support modern day living. 

What is Acupressure?

Used for thousands of years in China, acupressure works on the basis that there are points all around the body (acupoints) that lie along invisible energy channels (meridians) which connect all of the body and its organs.  

The theory is that when one of these meridians is blocked or out of balance, illness, tension, aches, pain, lethargy, and mental illness can occur. So to counteract that, a practitioner will apply pressure with their fingers, palms, elbows, feet, or special devices to various acupoints, clearing the blockage to enable the lifeforce to flow freely as it should. 

Does Acupressure Work?

There’s still much clinical work that needs to be done in the area of acupressure for it to be fully understood. That said, the early research is highly promising, and some scientific studies have demonstrated it to be effective with:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Back pain
• Tension headaches
• Muscle Tension
• Fatigue
• Pain relief
• Stress management

Even more important is anecdotal evidence with millions of people around the world citing the benefits they’ve experienced through regular acupressure.

Still need some convincing? Find out more by reading our recent blog, The science Behind Acupressure.

How Can I Do Acupressure at Home?

The great news is that you can now experience for yourself the amazing benefits that acupressure brings, all within the confines of your own home.  

If you’re suffering neck and back tension from sitting at a desk all day, as well as muscular aches and pains from standing on your feet, carrying young children and daily anxiety or stress, then it’s time to invest in the Scentered DE STRESS Five Minute Foot Mat and Mindful Aromatherapy Balm. 

This modern take on the bed of nails, with 42 pressure points per foot stud is ideal for a quick release of muscle tension across the body. The gentle painless pressure of the foot mat targets key acupoints on the feet, allowing the body to relax and releases endorphins. You’ll be left feeling calm, and conversely, energised with noticeably more relaxed muscles. And did you know that acupressure can even improve the quality of your sleep too?

Use your foot mat for 5 minutes at least once a day for maximum benefit. For the ultimate relaxation ritual, couple it with the Home Spa DE STRESS Relaxation Kit. Simply warm the microwaveable lavender wheat bag to soothe the neck and shoulders too. Total bliss.

Still unsure how the devil you’ll fit 5 minutes into your day? Well, you can use your acupressure foot mat anywhere and at any time. From when you’re washing up, during your lunch break, watching the television, reading a good book or you could even have it stationed under your work desk. I mean, who’s going to know you’re enjoying some acupressure whilst you’re on that work zoom!

We would love to hear about your mental wellness journey. You can also keep in touch via our Instagram @iamscentered or sign up to our newsletter for updates, news and offers.