13 Pressure Points You Should Know to Ease Headaches Naturally

Pressure point therapy provides a mild, drug-free method of relieving headaches, whether you’re suffering from a persistent migraine or tension brought on by stress. When applied properly, these particular body points—mostly on your face, hands, and feet—can reduce pain and bring you back to a state of calm. To assist you in finding natural relief, let’s examine 13 of the most efficient pressure points.

1. Yintang (The Third Eye Point)

Yintang, which is situated just above the nose bridge between your eyebrows, is well-known for reducing stress and promoting mental calmness. For one to two minutes, use your index finger to gently press this point in a circular motion. It works particularly well for headaches brought on by stress, eye strain, and general exhaustion. Sleep problems can also be resolved with regular stimulation.

2. Taiyang (The Temples)

This point is located in the gentle creases that run parallel to your eyebrows at your temples. Taiyang massage in a circular motion relieves migraines and tension headaches, particularly those brought on by stress or eye strain. For a minute or two, applying light pressure can help the facial muscles relax and lessen throbbing pain.

3. Hegu (LI4 – The Hand Valley Point)

LI4, a potent pressure point for general pain relief, is situated between the thumb and index finger. For 30 to 60 seconds, firmly press and hold it with both hands. This point is frequently used in acupressure to treat headaches, particularly when they are accompanied by jaw or neck tension. If you are pregnant, stay away from this one.

4. Zan Zhu (Bright Eyes Point)

This point, which is located just above the inner corners of your eyes at the base of your inner eyebrows, relieves headaches and pressure from your sinuses. Press the area gently with both thumbs for approximately 30 seconds. It can revitalize weary eyes and is perfect for headaches caused by colds, sinus blockages, or eye strain.

5. Shuai Gu (Gallbladder 8)

This point is located in a tiny skull hollow, about an inch above the ear. It works wonders to lessen migraines, particularly those that only affect one side of the head. To relieve accumulated tension, apply light circular pressure here for one minute. It might also lessen migraine-related lightheadedness and visual abnormalities.

6. Feng Chi (GB20 – Wind Pool)

This point, which is situated in the hollow regions next to your spine at the base of your skull, is a popular treatment for stiff necks and tension headaches. Tilt your head slightly back and apply upward pressure with your thumbs. This method helps reduce pain from tense shoulder and neck muscles and increases blood flow to the brain.

7. Yingxiang (Welcome Fragrance)

This point is located close to the junction of the nostrils and the cheek on either side. By pressing Yingxiang, sinus headaches can be lessened and nasal passages opened. It’s particularly helpful when you’re congested or during allergy season. Airflow is improved and facial pressure that can cause headaches is released by gently massaging this area in small circles.

8. Ear Apex (Tip of the Ear)

It may seem strange, but pinching or pressing the tip of your ear can help relieve migraines and even sudden headaches. This point can rapidly lessen the severity of your pain by connecting to your body’s pain management pathways. For a brief moment, you can activate this relaxing area with your fingers or even a clothespin.

9. Nei Guan (P6 – Inner Gate)

About three finger-widths below the wrist crease, on the inner forearm, is where Nei Guan is located. When migraines cause nausea or vertigo, pressing this point is known to help. For one minute, apply constant pressure. It is frequently used in acupuncture to treat motion sickness and is a fantastic choice if digestive problems are the cause of your headaches.

10. Jian Jing (GB21 – Shoulder Well)

This point, which is situated halfway between the edge of your shoulder and your neck, aids in releasing tension that can cause headaches. Using your other hand, apply downward pressure. People who work at a desk all day or who carry stress in their upper back will find it especially helpful. Steer clear of it while pregnant as it might cause contractions.

11. Drilling Bamboo

This point is located directly below the brow bone at the inner corners of your eyes. To ease headaches caused by sinus problems or eye fatigue, lightly press with your thumbs. It is especially beneficial following extended periods of screen time or exposure to bright lights. Additionally, massaging this area can help ease tension and puffiness in the eyes.

12. Feet Between Toes (Liver 3 – Tai Chong)

This point, which is situated between your big and second toes on the top of your foot, is well-known for relieving tension and stress. For one minute, firmly press with your thumb to help release tense energy and relax your body. It works best for emotional or hormonal headaches, and for better effects, it’s frequently combined with hand acupressure.

13. Thumb Toe (SP4 – Spleen 4)

This lesser-known point is located directly beneath the big toe on the inside edge of your foot. It has a connection to the digestive system and helps with headaches brought on by bloating or imbalances in the gut. Knead with light pressure. Additionally, stimulating SP4 may lessen fatigue associated with poor digestion and PMS-related headaches.

One easy, all-natural method of relieving headaches without the need for medicine is to apply pressure points. They are an excellent addition to your self-care regimen, even though they cannot take the place of medical care. Relief may literally be at your fingertips if you pay attention to your body, experiment with various points, and record what feels best for you.