We have all had to deal with uncomfortable and painful problems in specific areas of our bodies.
Whether these pains have been caused by a prolonged medical condition, or a simple seasonal bug, it's important that you find ways to help relieve the pain and stress.
Recently, we've looked at a simple five-minute hand exercise to balance your energy and overall health with Jin Shin Jyutsu, a mindful practice that is related to meditation techniques.
Now, in an exclusive guide below, we bring you some very easy, safe massage exercises you can do to help relieve sinus and congestion-induced pain.
They follow the concept of acupressure points, which is very widely discussed and noted upon in Eastern medicine.
Following the research and tutorials done by Michael Reed Gach, Ph.D., an expert on acupressure therapy, these exercises will relieve more than just congestion — and go on to help with symptoms like headaches and memory loss.
Scroll further to see some of the gentle exercises you can do, and let us know what you think in the comments below!
1. Stuffy Nose
Located directly at the bottom of your cheekbones, and aligned below your pupils, are acupressure points called "Facial Beauty."
By gently applying pressure to the points on both sides for about two to three minutes, you will be able to relieve a stuffy nose, among many other problems, including head congestion (which is caused by blocked sinuses), burning eyes, and fatigue in the eyes.
Make sure to breathe slowly, deeply, and evenly while you press on the acupressure points.
2. Sinus Congestion
Situated just outside the nostrils, the "Welcoming Perfume" pressure points are believed to relieve sinus and nasal congestion, sinus pain, and facial swelling.
Similar to head congestion, nasal congestion can be caused by anything that inflames or irritates the nasal tissues. It can be caused by something as simple as tobacco smoke.
3. Watery Eyes
Named "Drilling Bamboo," these pressure points are located in the indentation of the inner eye sockets, where the bridge of the nose connects to the ridge of the eyebrows.
By gently applying pressure to these areas near the eyes, you will be able to help soothe red and watery eyes, hay fever, headaches, and eyestrain, among other sinus-related pains.
4. Dizziness
To help relieve congestion-induced symptoms like dizziness, excessive sneezing, and even fainting, Dr. Gach suggests massaging the "Middle of a Person" acupressure point.
This aptly named point is located approximately two-thirds of the way up from your upper lip to your nose.
5. Eyestrain
Located directly between your eyebrows, on the indentation where the bridge of the nose meets the forehead, is the "Third Eye Point."
Massaging this acupressure point will help relieve serious eyestrain, headaches, and symptoms of hay fever and sinus congestion.
6. Stiff Neck
There are several exercises you can do to help relieve neck pain, including ones that include exercise equipment, like foam rollers.
But an even simpler way to help soothe stiff necks and relieve head congestion, swollen eyes, and even sore throats, is to lightly press on the points of "Heavenly Pillar."
These points are located about one half inch below the base of your skull, on the ropey muscles on the back of your neck.
7. Headaches
We all know that sinus congestion can also result in frequent, painful headaches. To relieve your pain, locate the point of "One Hundred Meeting," which sits on the crown of the head.
To find this point, start from your ears, and follow a "line" up from there all the way to the top of the head.
By massaging this point, you will work to relieve your headaches, and even help improve your concentration.
8. Weak Sense Of Smell
Sinus congestion may bring pain and stress, but have you noticed that it can also weaken your innate senses?
Take your sense of smell, for example. This can be very greatly affected by congestion and pain. To help regain your sense of smell, even if just by a little bit, try locating the point of "Penetrate Heaven."
Start at the top of your skull, following a line up from the back of the ears. Then, measure about one thumb's width away from the center.
9. Head Congestion
Lastly, prepare to look for an acupressure point that isn't located on your face or head.
Called "Joining the Valley," this point is located in the webbing between your thumb and index finger. Bring these two fingers close together, and look for the "highest" point of muscle.
Gently massaging this point is believed to help with head congestion, and to "open up" the channels in your body, to bring blocked energy downward. This acupressure point is also believed to relieve other sinus pains, headaches, and symptoms of hay fever.
Interestingly, pregnant women are told to not touch this pressure point — as it will stimulate their bodies in a way to trigger premature contractions.
Did you learn anything new about some alternative ways you can relieve your sinus pains?
Please SHARE if you thought these acupressure tips were intriguing and helpful!
