Are you looking to lose weight? Do you feel that your lifestyle is not delivering the results that you want? Well, an acupressure mat for weight loss may be the answer that you are looking for. These mats work by using pressure points on the body. This stimulation helps release endorphins into the bloodstream, relieving pain and promoting better health. Think of it as a soothing self-massage.
Losing weight can be a challenging journey, especially with the hustle and bustle of modern life. However, modern problems don’t always require modern solutions. Acupressure treatment has been around for centuries, and is proven to reduce anxiety and stress – and we all know what impact cortisol has on our weight.
In this post, we will discuss the different acupressure points for weight loss and how they can help you achieve your desired results. We will also recommend positions that are best suited for weight loss. So if you’re looking to shed a few pounds, read on to learn more about acupressure for weight loss!
How Does Acupressure Work?
Acupressure, very much like acupuncture, is a form of alternative traditional Chinese medicine that uses pressure to stimulate specific points in the body in order to relieve pain, promote blood stimulation, and encourage healing naturally.
Acu-mats are specifically designed for this purpose, and they’re also great for weight loss. Some of these pressure points may even influence your appetite and the stimulation helps melts fat cells.
If you’re considering incorporating this as part of your routine, an acupressure mat for weight loss is a great option because it’s easy to use and it is portable, so you can use it anywhere, any time you want.
Acupressure Points for Weight Loss
To kick things off, you first need to find and identify certain pressure points in your body. Let’s take a look;
Zusanli (ST36)
This point focuses on the stomach meridian that influences the organs, abdomen, and digestion, which in turn0 affects your overall energy. Interestingly enough, this point is located about 3 inches below the kneecap.
Xuehai (SP10)
Let’s move up to about 2 inches above your kneecap where the Xuehai is located. This pressure point impacts blood sugar levels, especially relevant to diabetes patients.
Sanyinjiao (SP6)
Sanyinjiao is also known for its ability to control your appetite as it influences the lower abdomen and the parasympathetic nerves. It is located about 3 inches above the bone on your inner ankle.
Zhongwan (CV12)
Here is another pressure point, about 4 inches above the belly button that also influences the abdomen, internal organs, and intestines. It relates to improved digestion and improved appetite control.
Don’t be dishearted after reading this section – finding these pressure points are not complicated.
What Are the Benefits of Using an Acupressure Mat?
As we know, weight loss can be challenging, but acupressure mats can help make the journey a little easier. They are a popular weight loss tool because they provide pressure to the body at specific points.
This stimulation can help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation. Plus, acu-mats come in many different types and sizes, so they are versatile. Whether you’re looking to lose weight or just improve your overall health, use the acupressure mat to help you achieve your weight loss goals.
The benefits of acupressure mat are beyond what you think. It does not just help you to lose weight but also benefit you in a various way.
Pain Reduction
Unfortunately, obesity is synonymous with chronic pain in many cases. The extra pounds add extra strain to the joints, leading to inflammation and discomfort. This discomfort causes a vicious cycle- you are too sore to exercise, which leads to more weight gain.
Better Sleep
You need quality sleep to keep your hormones balanced and in check -including the hunger hormones. Accu-mats are not only great for relieving pain in various areas, but it also helps to reduce stress and tension. This, in turn, leads to better sleep, which leads to a happier, healthier you.
Improved Digestion
Beat the bloat and stimulate the whole digestive system with this mat that can work on pressure points throughout your body. In addition to helping regulate digestion, it can also tone the abdominal muscles- so it is a win-win all around.
Cellulite Reduction
Acupressure mats are ideally suited for reducing cellulite because they, as we’ve mentioned previously, help increase circulation, which in turn helps break down fat cells. The little spikes massage underlying tissues, which also improves elasticity and dissipates fluid retention.
Positions of Acupressure Mat for Weight Loss
There are a variety of acupressure mat positions you can use to help promote weight loss. Keep in mind that different areas on the mat will work better for different people, but try diverse ways to use it to balance the entire body. Do not be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t successful – keep practicing!
- Flat on your back: That’s it! Just lie down on the mat, relax, breathe, and let the little spikes eat away at the tension. Do keep a shirt on, as the spikes might feel overwhelming on your bare skin.
- Flat on your stomach: Cross your arms below your head, or grab a pillow. Again, just lay and relax your stomach and chest on the mat to stimulate your digestive organs.
- “Up Dog:” What’s up dog? If you practice yoga, you already know. Keep your thighs on your lower stomach on the mat, but press down with your hands to lift your torso off the floor. Note that this is not the plank position. You want to keep your lower body firmly on the mat.
- Forward fold: Sit on the mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. With a flat back, stretch out as far as you are comfortable and try to reach touch your ankles.
- Stand on the mat: Sit on a chair with your bare feet on the mat for a really good reflexology session. If you want a more intense sensation, stand barefoot on the mat.
It’s More Than Just Pins and Needles
As we’ve seen, acupressure mats are a great way to help you lose body weight and keep you balanced, and are safe to use. By applying pressure to specific points of your body, you can help to reduce inflammation, stress, and even insomnia. This, in turn, helps to control your appetite and help you to lose weight.
Combining an acupressure mat for weight loss with other healthy lifestyle habits will give you the best results – so make sure you’re getting enough exercise and eating a balanced diet!
Reinette Robbertze completed her diplomas in both Journalism and Nutrition respectively. With an impressive portfolio of health blogs and magazine articles behind her name, she shares her real-life experiences with her passion for healthy living. Her educational background guides readers with authentic, and sometimes anecdotal information. Stay tuned!
