Tools to Help with Sleep: Acupressure

Along with CHOP’s sleep hygiene guidelines, there are several simple, integrative practices that you and your child can do each night to promote a restful sleep. One practice is acupressure which can be done by the patient or by a parent/caregiver.

Acupressure is a technique where pressure is applied to specific points (acupoints) on the body. Self-acupressure can be very effective in relaxing the mind and the body. This can promote a more restful sleep and restore the body. Applying light to moderate pressure for 10 to 15 minutes to the following acupoints may help you fall asleep easily and go back to sleep if you wake during the night. Repeated use of these points will offer greater results.

Gently massage acupoint Yintang located in between the eyebrows to calm the mind.

Massage or hold acupoint Joining Valley (LI 4) located in the center of the fleshy part of the hand between the thumb and index finger. This will relieve tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.

Massage or hold acupoint Bubbling Spring (K 1) located in the depression on the bottom of the foot. This will help relax the body and calm the mind.

Additional resources

• Acupressure and Acupressure Bands and Seeds
• Integrative Medicine - Primary Care Perspectives Podcast

Visit chop.edu/IH-resources for more.