Stress Management

Alternative and Complementary Remedies for Cardiovascular Health

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is part of a holistic approach to health. Blockages in energy flow, and imbalances in the system, are often a consequence of personal habits in diet and activity, as well as our perceptions, thoughts, and emotional reactions. Shiatsu practitioners concentrate on stimulating the entire meridians rather than concentrating on individual acupressure point as in acupressure.

Shiatsu Tune Up to Strengthen Your Heart

1. Using 3 fingers (index. middle. and ring finger) of both hands press between your ribs. Spread your fingers and place them so that they fit between the ribs. 
Start near the breastbone, at the top of the rib cage, below the collar bone, and move outward. Now move down to the next set of ribs.

Note for Women: Don't press directly on the breasts; press only above, around, and below the breasts where you can work directly over the ribs.

2. Apply 3-finger pressure in the groove where your left arm meets your chest. Start at the top, beneath the collarbone, and move down an inch or so at a time, pressing about 10 seconds at each location.

3. Press the points along the Heart meridian on the inside lower part of your right arm, from the armpit down to your wrist. Hold each point for about 10 seconds.

4. Hold the little finger of your left hand between your right thumb and index finger. Press between the joints and at the tip of the finger for 10 seconds each time. Repeat with the same points on your left ring finger.

5. Place your right palm just below your rib cage, in the center (below the breastbone). Place your left palm on top of the right, and press firmly with both hands for 10 seconds. Repeat.

Caution: These remedies are not meant to be used as a treatment for heart attack. If you suspect a heart attack, seek emergency medical treatment immediately. 

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