Lower high blood pressure naturally: 3 pressure points for self-massage

High blood pressure, or hypertension with no known cause, is a very common disorder. Besides having greater risks of stroke and serious heart diseases, hypertension patients might suffer from the adverse effects of the drugs they use to fight high blood pressure. Excessive dosages of these drugs may cause renal failure, severely impact the nervous system, and also affect sex life.

However, a simple alternative technique like acupressure, specifically targeting pressure points across the body, can naturally restore your healthy state. Different oriental massage techniques use different points, as well as sequences, patterns, intensity, and duration of pressure.

Quick guide to main Eastern modalities of acupressure massage

In this article, we’ll explain how to manage your hypertension on your own using Thai acupressure techniques, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. The combination used in Thai massage for this purpose usually consists of 8 points, most of which you cannot find and press on your own. But there is also a simplified combination of 3 points, accessible for self-massage.

It is recommended that this procedure be performed in the following sequence: start with the Tai Xi point to stabilize and strengthen the kidneys, which play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure. Then, follow with the Tai Chong point to help soothe the liver, reduce stress, and improve circulation. Finish with the Shen Men point to calm the mind and heart, promoting relaxation and further lowering blood pressure.

Let’s learn about the top acupressure points that every hypertension patient should know to control their condition.

1. Tai Xi

Tai Xi, or the “Great Stream” pressure point, is located on the inside of the ankle, in the depression between the medial malleolus (the prominent bone of the inner ankle) and the Achilles tendon. Stimulating Tai Xi helps to improve water metabolism in the body and maintain the balance of fluids, which influence blood pressure, as well as boost energy levels and enhance overall vitality.

How to find Tai Xi

1. Sit or lie down comfortably with your foot relaxed.
2. Find the medial malleolus, which is the bony prominence that protrudes on the inner side of your ankle. It’s actually not a separate bone but the end of your larger leg bone – the tibia, or shinbone.
3. Locate the depression midway between the tip of the medial malleolus and the attachment of the Achilles tendon. There should be an obvious dip that you can slide your finger into.
4. In this depression, you should feel a slight pulse. This is the Tai Xi point.

How to massage Tai Xi

1. Press and hold the point with your thumb or index finger for about 60 seconds. Repeat on the other ankle.
2. Massage the point in a circular motion for 1-3 minutes. Repeat on the other ankle.

2. Tai Chong

WARNING: Do not massage Tai Xi if you are pregnant because it is located too close to Yong Quan point, which is used for inducing labor.

Tai Chong, or the “Great Rushing” pressure point, is located on the top of the foot, in the depression between the first and second metatarsal bones (the bones leading to the big toe and the second toe). Pressing this point daily can significantly lower blood pressure. It may also help alleviate headaches, eye pain, and menstrual pain.

How to find Tai Chong

1. Sit comfortably in a chair or on the floor with your legs extended. Place your foot flat on the ground or lift it so you can see the top of it.
2. Use your thumb to find the space between the first and second metatarsal bones (big toe and second toe) where you can feel they intersect.
3. Slide your thumb about a thumb-width above this intersection until you find a slight depression about 1-2 inches below the webbing between the big toe and the second toe.
4. When you press into this depression, you should feel a slight tenderness or sensitivity indicating the correct spot. This is the Tai Chong point.

How to massage Tai Chong

1. Press and hold the point with your thumb or index finger for about 60 seconds. Repeat on the other foot.
2. Massage the point in a circular motion for 1-3 minutes. Repeat on the other foot.

3. Shen Men

Shen Men, or the “Spirit Gate” pressure point, is located on the wrist crease, on the ulnar (pinky) side, in the depression between the pisiform bone and the tendon. It is associated with calming effects, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. You can press on this point whenever you’re feeling upset or stressed to help calm yourself down. Because stress is a major factor in raising blood pressure, this point is also used to address heart-related issues.

How to find Shen Men

1. Slightly bend your wrist with the palm facing upwards. Look at the crease that forms where your hand meets your wrist.
2. Identify the ulnar side of your wrist and look at the crease near the base of your pinky finger.
3. Find the pisiform bone, a small, pea-shaped bone located on the ulnar side of your wrist. To locate it, use the tip of your thumb to feel the bony prominence on the outside edge of your wrist.
4. Feel for the tendon that runs from your pinky towards your wrist, just next to the pisiform bone.
5. Locate a small depression between the pisiform bone and the tendon. When your thumb presses into this depression, you should feel a slight tenderness or sensitivity indicating the correct spot.

How to massage Shen Men

1. Press and hold the point with your thumb or index finger for about 60 seconds. Repeat on the other wrist.
2. Massage the point in a circular motion for 1-3 minutes. Repeat on the other wrist.