Acupressure: An Ancient Healing Touch Therapy

By Dr Anshika Pathak

Acupressure is an ancient healing art that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to stimulate the body’s natural self-healing abilities. While acupressure is widely known through Traditional Chinese Medicine, similar techniques have roots in Indian traditions as well.

Interestingly, both Indian and Eastern texts suggest the idea of healing through vital points in the body. In Indian history, the story of Bhishma Pitamah lying on a bed of arrows in the Mahabharata is often cited—where the precise placement of arrows on his body touched several marma points (vital energy points), sustaining his life until he chose to leave it. While not explicitly labeled as “acupressure,” this reference to marma chikitsa—an ancient Ayurvedic system of stimulating energy points—is strikingly similar in principle. These marma points are believed to be the basis of the acupressure and acupuncture points seen in other healing systems.

Acupressure operates on the idea that vital life energy flows through pathways in the body. When this flow is disrupted, it leads to discomfort or disease. By applying gentle, sustained pressure to specific points, balance is restored, energy flow is improved, and healing begins.

Common benefits of acupressure include relief from pain, anxiety, headaches, digestive disorders, menstrual discomfort, and sleep disturbances. Unlike acupuncture, which uses needles, acupressure uses only fingers, palms, or tools, making it safe, non-invasive, and accessible.

In modern naturopathy, acupressure is often used alongside diet, detox, and other therapies. It helps stimulate circulation, reduce muscle tension, enhance immunity, and promote emotional balance.Whether seen as an offshoot of ancient Indian ‘marma therapy’ or developed independently in various cultures, acupressure beautifully unites traditional knowledge with natural healing. As the world returns to gentle, holistic therapies, this timeless technique is being rediscovered and embraced once again.

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