Have you ever considered acupressure? The results sound incredible.

In a recent sleep research study, acupressure helped chronic insomniacs get a better nights rest for up to two weeks after the treatment. Similar to acupuncture, acupressure involves pressing the bodies pressure points in order to stimulate health. Unlike acupuncture, which uses thin needles to access the pressure points, acupuncture simply uses fingers and hands.

This controlled study has yielded favorable results for the alternative treatment. 50 people with chronic insomnia were split into two groups. One group received acupressure treatment while the other remained a control group, receiving light touches at the acupressure areas instead. Improvements in sleep were measured with a standardized test over a period of 5 weeks. In the end, the group receiving the acupressure treatment had significantly better results during the  trial and continued for two weeks after.

Although the exact science behind acupressure is not known, the results speak for themselves. Applying pressure to specific pressure points stimulates blood flow to deep muscle tissue. Doing this increases the temperature of your muscles and makes them feel more flexible and relaxed.  One specific pressure point, called the HT7 point, is particularly known for improving insomnia.

The HT7, or The Spirit Gate, is located on the wrist, on the same side as the pinky. Before going to sleep, try rubbing the area slowly but firmly. This should help you get to sleep. If you want to wake up, instead of rubbing the point, tap on it. If you don’t feel any changes in results, try scheduling an appointment with a acupressure professional. This will let you learn first hand how and where to apply pressure on your own.