3 pressure points & essential oils for more energy

Holistic health systems around the world have their own methods for increasing energy levels and supporting vitality, from herbal remedies to movement practices, breathing techniques to meditation. Increasing energy levels is something that both ancient and modern cultures have paid special attention to. Pressure points are used in both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the Indian Ayurvedic system for various physical and energetic purposes, particularly to increase vitality and longevity. Today you can find acupressure mats that you can lie your entire body on, as well as special acupressure floor mats like the(link removed),which stimulates the many reflex zones on the soles of the feet. The Hayu’u body crestis also a great tool for improving blood circulation and lymphatic drainage and also works to release blocked subtle energy or “Qi”. The use of essential oils also goes back several thousand years, when the ancient Egyptians and Greeks as well as China and India used the oils for rituals and healing methods. Combining pressure points and essential oils is a wonderful way to combine the powerful benefits of both, and you can incorporate them into your own self-care practice to support your well-being. It's important to remember that these techniques are realpowerful,and if you are pregnant or at all unsure whether you should use them, seek out a qualified acupuncturist or aromatherapist to guide you in the right direction. For those ready to safely add these holistic tips to your wellness toolkit, read on for three pressure points and essential oils for increased energy and vitality.

K1 & cypress or frankincense oil

Acupressure point 'K1' orKidney 1is ideal for anyone who has a busy mind and feels unsettled. As the lowest acupressure point on the body, K1 is all about drawing energy downward to cultivate a calmer and more grounded state of mind. Thinking for too long can be very tiring, so using this point regularly is a great way to drain excess energy from the mind and replenish your energy reserves. K1 is also linked to the energetic qualities of the kidneys, which in TCM are said to contain our deep life stores. Too much stress, overwork, too much stimulation, illness and burnout can severely deplete kidney qi, leaving us feeling exhausted and depressed, while measures such as rest, nutritious foods, adequate sleep and time in nature can help restore balance to these life stores. Combine this pressure point with frankincense essential oil, which can be calming, grounding and stress-relieving – a little frankincense oil on the soles of your feet at night is also said to encourage vivid dreaming! You can also useTisserand’s – The little box for stress relief,and select theInner harmonyBlend, with frankincense and geranium to create a feeling of contentment. The rollerball application of this blend is also very portable, so you can take this exercise with you to stay grounded when traveling.

To find K1, find the spot between your second and third toes, then draw a line about 1/3 of the way down the bottom of your foot. Press and massage the oil here with a finger or thumb for about 5 minutes.

GB25 & eucalyptus oil

Acupressure point GB25 orGallbladder 25is associated with the element of wood, according to TCM, and is a point to work on especially during the transition from winter to spring, as we begin to awaken from hibernation and head out into the world again. GB25 helps relax the physical tendons and ligaments, reducing physical stiffness while promoting a free flow of “Qi” throughout the body. Spring is a great time to make new plans and change your daily routine, and as nature's “New Year,” spring is also a great time to start healthy habits, start an exercise program, or even begin a gentle detox. If you've hit snooze a little too often lately or feel like your energy needs a boost, use GB25 to revitalize yourself. Couple this point with(link removed),This can help eliminate the physical strain of coughing and chest discomfort that occurs at the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Eucalyptus is also refreshing and can help boost the body's physical and energetic circulation to promote free flow of Qi.

To locate GB25, place your thumbs on your lower back around the waist area. Gently push up until you feel your lower pair of ribs. Follow the ribs until you reach the “free” end of the rib (the pointed part) on the sides of your body. This area can be a little sensitive, so apply gentle pressure and massage for a few minutes if necessary.

GB20 & Free Spirit impulse roller oil

The acupressure point GB20 orGallbladder 20is another point associated with the wood element. According to TCM, each element has a specific direction of movement, and wood uses the direction of upward moving energy. When we look out into nature in Spring (ruled by the Wood element) we can see plants and flowers beginning to shoot 'upwards' and the sun also appears to be higher in the sky around Spring and Summer, providing greater brightness and also a sense of emotional uplift. This upward movement of energy encourages us to move our bodies more, explore new ideas and projects, and eat bitter leafy greens. These bitter substances, in turn, are great for liver and gallbladder health and support the natural detoxification powers of these organs. GB20 is particularly useful for a quick energy boost, especially if you've spent much of your day looking at a screen, and is also a great headache reliever. Pair this point with the(link removed),with patchouli and Moroccan chamomile to lift your mood any time of day.

To locate GB20, gently grasp the back of your head with your hands and press your thumbs into the base of your skull. GB20 is located at the base of the occiput, in a small depression approximately where the head and neck meet. Use your thumbs to apply a little pressure here for a few seconds at a time and take a few deep breaths to increase your energy even more.

Try adding these techniques to your self-care toolkit this season to boost your energy levels!