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You are always welcome to schedule a brief phone call or video chat to discuss your situation.
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What’s the difference between acupuncture and acupressure?
Is having an acupressure session like getting a massage?
Can acupressure be done virtually? What does a typical virtual acupressure session look like?
Will we be talking during the session?
Is there any research on the effectiveness of acupressure?
1.
What is acupressure?
Acupressure is a component of Chinese medicine that helps balance the physiological energy in the body to promote the body’s self-healing capabilities and improve physical or emotional symptoms. This is done by applying pressure to stimulate specific points on the body (known as acupoints) using the fingers or a device.
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2.
What’s the difference between acupuncture and acupressure?
Both methods use the same theory and the same acupoints on the body. Acupuncture uses needles to stimulate the points. Acupressure does not.
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3.
Is having an acupressure session like getting a massage?
No. While some types of massage (e.g., shiatsu) incorporate acupressure points into the massage experience, acupressure itself is not massage.
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5.
Can acupressure be done virtually? What does a typical virtual acupressure session look like?
Yes, acupressure can be done virtually over video conference.
During a virtual acupressure session, you’ll be fully dressed and either seated or lying down in a comfortable position with your camera positioned so I can see most, if not all, of your body. We’ll take a few minutes at the beginning to discuss your needs.
I’ll then guide you through an individualized series of acupoint combinations and instruct you how to hold the points on your own body. We’ll be together on camera the entire session so I can let you know when and how to move from one point to the next. I’ll also instruct you in modifications for holding the points if needed.
If you notice sensations in your body while holding the points or if you have questions or concerns, I’ll be right there with you to help navigate whatever comes up during the session.
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6.
Will we be talking during the session?
After our initial discussion, I may check in from time to time during the session and ask what you’re noticing. How much you choose to speak during the session is entirely up to you.
Some people prefer not to talk at all once we start the process. Others like to bring up things they’re noticing as the session unfolds. Some people prefer to wait until the end of the session to discuss what they experienced. Whatever feels right to you is completely fine.
During virtual visits, I’ll be talking throughout the session to instruct you on where to hold the points on your body and when to move from one point to the next.
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7.
I’m not into woo-woo or new age spiritual things. Do I have to believe in acupressure for it to work for me?
No. Acupressure has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to help regulate imbalances in the body-mind system and stimulate the body’s self-healing abilities. It is not a spiritual or faith-based practice. Belief is not required to see results.
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8.
Is there any research on the effectiveness of acupressure?
Yes. There are clinical studies showing acupressure to be effective with a variety of issues including pain, fatigue, and anxiety.
Research has found that acupressure affects the physical body in ways that include changes in brain connectivity patterns as well as heart rate and blood pressure.
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9.
I’m being treated for a physical condition and/or mental health issue. Can I come to you for acupressure instead of seeing my doctor or therapist?
No. I am not a doctor, psychotherapist, or counselor, and acupressure is not a substitute for formal medical or psychological care. However, acupressure is an excellent complement to conventional treatments you may be receiving from your healthcare providers.
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