Headaches and migraines can be painful at best and debilitating at worst. There are so many triggers for headaches including dehydration, food, stress, hypertension, hormonal surges, bright lights, and strong smells (to name but a few). To ease a headache, many of us will reach for the painkillers to get through the day.
In this post, I’d like to share 3 ear points to use for the symptom of headache. Find each point, add gentle pressure using finger and thumb, rotate and release. Do this no more than once to begin with, and then wait as the body digests the action. Note that over stimulation can create feelings of nausea and dizziness, so “less is more” in this case. If any point is sensitive, this is a good indication of imbalance.
Point 1: Liver Yang
This is on the outer edge of the ear known as the Helix. Gently palpate in this area to see if there is a sensitive spot. Then gently add pressure, rotate and release.
I often consider this point when headaches, dizziness, stress or tinnitus seem to worsen during busy or emotionally demanding periods. In Chinese medicine, these symptoms can be associated with a pattern known as Liver Yang Rising.
Point 2: Subcortex
The area marked here includes the brain and head. Gently squeeze this area placing the forefinger inside of this flap (known as the Antitragus) and the thumb on the outside. Add pressure, rotate and release.
This point is frequently used to help settle an overactive nervous system. It is commonly included in treatments for headaches, poor sleep, anxiety and symptoms involving sensory overload.
Point 3: Ear Shenmen
Place forefinger on the point, and support with thumb behind the ear. Add pressure, rotate and release.
Often translated as “Spirit Gate”, Shen Men is one of my most frequently used ear points. It is valued for its calming effect and is commonly used to support relaxation and overall wellbeing.
By using these points, the intention is to provide rapid pain relief, or reduction of pain, from the symptom of headache.
As with all self-help information, use at your own risk and do not substitute for prescribed medication or consultation with your GP/medical practitioner.
Make sure you are properly hydrated with clean, filtered, structured water.
Contact me to book in for Reflexology or Acupuncture at Elder Cottage Clinic, Warton PR4, Lancashire.
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Ear Points for Fertility: The 28 Day Protocol title
A practical self-guided fertility ear acupressure programme featuring pattern identification, point-finding photographs, a four-week routine and tracking tools to help you use ear acupressure consistently and confidently.