Pressure Points for Anxiety: 6 Points to Try for Relief
Long work hours, emotional strain, and an always-on digital life have made peace of mind harder to achieve. While many people turn to therapy, meditation, or medication, there’s a natural and ancient practice that offers gentle, effective relief—acupressure.
Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupressure uses the power of touch to activate specific pressure points on the body. These points, when pressed gently, can help improve energy flow, release tension, and calm the nervous system. If you’re searching for simple, non-invasive techniques, these pressure points for anxiety could help soothe both mind and body.
Below are 6 effective pressure points for stress and anxiety, along with their Hindi names in English, locations, and methods of application.
Top 6 Pressure Points for Anxiety You Can Try
1. Yin Tang (त्रितीय नेत्र बिंदु / Triteeya Netra Bindu – Third Eye Point)
- Location: Between the eyebrows, just above the bridge of the nose.
Often called the “Third Eye Point,” Yin Tang is among the most popular anxiety pressure points. Stimulating this area helps reduce stress, tension, and restlessness while promoting mental clarity.
How to Apply:
- Use your index or middle finger.
- Press gently for 1–2 minutes while taking slow, deep breaths.
- Practice 2–3 times a day or during high-stress moments.
This point is especially effective when you feel overwhelmed or mentally scattered.
2. Shen Men (हृदय द्वार बिंदु / Hriday Dwaar Bindu – Heart 7)
- Location: On the inner wrist crease, in line with the little finger.
Known as the “Spirit Gate,” Shen Men is one of the most calming acupressure points for anxiety. It helps with emotional regulation, reduces palpitations, and improves sleep quality.
How to Apply:
- Locate the point with your thumb.
- Apply gentle circular pressure for 2–3 minutes on each wrist.
- Use before bedtime or when you feel anxious.
This point is excellent for calming racing thoughts and bringing emotional balance.
Also Read: How to Meditate for Anxiety: 15 Tips & Techniques
3. Neiguan (पार्श्व रेखा बिंदु / Paarsv Rekha Bindu – Pericardium 6)
- Location: On the inner forearm, three finger-widths below the wrist, between two tendons.
Neiguan is known for easing nausea but also works effectively for emotional relief and panic symptoms. It’s a powerful pressure point to relieve anxiety.
How to Apply:
- Use your opposite thumb to press the point.
- Maintain steady pressure for 1–2 minutes while breathing deeply.
- Repeat on the other arm.
This point is particularly beneficial during sudden anxiety attacks or emotional spikes.
4. Anmian (शांत निद्रा बिंदु / Shaant Nidra Bindu – Peaceful Sleep Point)
- Location: Behind the ear, near the base of the skull.
Though not a traditional TCM point, Anmian is widely used to treat anxiety-related insomnia and emotional stress. It helps the nervous system slow down, preparing the body for restful sleep.
How to Apply:
- Locate the hollow behind your earlobe.
- Use your thumb or finger to massage in a circular motion.
- Do this for 2–3 minutes on each side.
This point is ideal for those who find it difficult to unwind or fall asleep due to stress.
5. Tai Chong (यकृत 3 बिंदु / Yakrit 3 Bindu – Liver 3)
- Location: On the top of the foot, in the groove between the big toe and second toe.
Tai Chong, also known as Liver 3, is one of the best pressure points for anxiety that stems from frustration, irritability, or emotional blockage.
How to Apply:
- Use your thumb to apply firm pressure to the webbing.
- Massage gently in a circular motion for 2–3 minutes.
- Repeat on both feet as needed.
This is especially helpful when you’re feeling emotionally stuck or mentally overworked.
6. He Gu (बाह्य हस्त बिंदु / Baahya Hast Bindu – Large Intestine 4)
- Location: On the back of the hand, in the fleshy area between the thumb and index finger.
He Gu is a versatile anxiety pressure point, known not only for relieving headaches but also for reducing stress-induced muscle tension and calming nervous energy.
How to Apply:
- Use your thumb to press firmly into the point.
- Hold the pressure for about 2 minutes.
- Repeat on the other hand.
Note: Avoid this point during pregnancy, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
Also Read: Online Anxiety Counseling in India: Approach to Mental Well-being
How Do These Pressure Points Help with Anxiety?
The human body contains invisible energy pathways or meridians, as understood in Traditional Chinese Medicine. When we stimulate these acupressure points for anxiety, we help unblock stuck energy (Qi), improve blood flow, and activate the parasympathetic nervous system—the part responsible for “rest and digest.”
Scientific studies suggest that acupressure may reduce the production of cortisol, the stress hormone, and improve overall emotional well-being. While not a substitute for professional therapy, these pressure points for stress and anxiety are excellent complementary tools.
Tips for Safe and Effective Practice
To get the most benefit from these pressure points, consider these guidelines:
- ✅ Be Consistent: Daily practice enhances results over time.
- ✅ Start Light: Gentle pressure is sufficient; don’t press too hard.
- ✅ Pair with Breathing: Deep breathing enhances the calming effect.
- ✅ Avoid During Pregnancy: Especially avoid He Gu (LI4) unless guided by a trained expert.
- ✅ Listen to Your Body: If any point feels painful or uncomfortable, stop immediately.
- ✅ Consult a Professional: If you have chronic conditions or are under medication, speak with a trained practitioner before starting acupressure.
Final Thoughts
Anxiety doesn’t have to dominate your life. By learning to activate these anxiety pressure points, you give yourself the power to find calm from within. These points are safe, natural, and easy to use at home, at work, or even while traveling.
Whether you struggle with chronic stress or occasional emotional waves, these pressure points for anxiety offer accessible relief and emotional grounding. Explore what works best for you, integrate them into your daily routine, and remember—your journey to inner peace starts with small, mindful steps.
Embrace the healing potential of your own hands and allow these pressure points for anxiety to guide you toward balance and serenity.