How to Get Rid of a Headache, Naturally: 4 Acupressure Points
Acupressure Points for Headaches: an overview
You don’t have to let headaches ruin your day. Learn the ancient art of acupressure and unlock four easy ways to manage headaches, right at your fingertips! Backed by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), these acupressure points have been used over centuries to help individuals manage headaches and provide temporary relief.
What are acupressure points?
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Acupressure points are specific spots on the body, where applying pressure may affect the body’s energy flow or “Qi,” and potentially provide health benefits.
Some clinical studies and systematic reviews indicate that acupressure can be effective for relieving certain types of pain such as headaches and lower back pain. The mechanism is still not fully understood, but proposed explanations include activation of nerve pathways that block pain perception and stimulation of neurohormonal responses such as endorphin release (PMID: 23415783)
1. ‘Yin Tang’ Point
Key benefits
- Reducing mental fatigue and overwhelm
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Alleviating tension around the head
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Calming the mind (The "shén", 神)
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Promote mental clarity
What is 'Yin Tang'?
Located between the eyebrows, this calming acupressure point is known as the “Hall of Impression” in TCM. It’s a powerful point to soothe headaches, reduce stress, and relieve sinus pressure.
How to find it:
Gently press the area right between your eyebrows, in the centre of your forehead. Apply light pressure for 1-2 minutes, breathe deeply, and feel the tension melt away.
2. ‘Tai Yang’ Point
Good for:
- Reducing tension
- Easing migraine pain
- Relieving dizziness
- Relieving eye discomfort
What is it?
Known as the "Sun Point" in TCM, ‘Tai Yang’ is located at the temples on either side of the head. It’s a go-to for relieving headaches, eye strain, and even calming the mind.
How to find it:
Find the hollow on either side of your temples, about one inch behind the outer corners of your eyes. Gently massage this point with light circular motions for 1-2 minutes. Close your eyes and take deep, calming breaths.
3. ‘Bai Hui’ Point
Good for:
- Relieving tension headaches
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Calming the mind (The "shén", 神)
- Reduce mental fatigue
- Support emotional overwhelm
What is ‘Bai Hui’?
Located at the top of the head, ‘Bai Hui’, meaning “100 Meetings” in TCM, connects with all the body’s energy channels. It’s known for balancing the body, relieving headaches, and "lifting your spirits".
How to find it:
Place your fingers at the highest point on your head, directly in line with the tops of your ears. Apply gentle pressure, massage in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes.
4. ‘He Gu’ Point
Good for:
- Releasing tension in the head, neck and shoulders
- Improving blood circulation in your hands
- Stress relief
- Pain management
What is it?
Also known as LI4, the ‘He Gu’ point is located on the hand, between the thumb and index finger. It’s a well-known point for relieving headaches, tension, and boosting overall energy flow.
How to find it:
Locate the fleshy area between your thumb and index finger. Press firmly with your opposite thumb, applying pressure for 1-2 minutes while breathing deeply. You’ll feel a release of tension as your body starts to relax.
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Now that you’ve discovered these 4 acupressure points to tackle occasional nagging headaches in the comfort of your home, try them and let us know what you think!
Medical disclaimer: We want to make clear that the brand is inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and does not give medical advice. While we collaborate with TCM experts we are not licensed medical practitioners. As always, if the headache is persistent, please visit your recommended GP or physician.
