Relax Already: Acupressure Massage

FitSugar — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:30:00 PDT

Stress builds throughout the day, especially on a Monday. Around 3 p.m. I can feel my to-do list buzzing around my brain. The mental noise can certainly interfere with my ability to concentrate. I found this acupressure move helps to quiet my mind.

I press the pads of my thumbs on the spot right between my eyebrows, just above the bridge of my nose. I hold the position, pressing gently, for 30 seconds to a minute while breathing smoothly. It clears my mind and helps me focus. Try it right now and see if it helps you, too.

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Quick Ways to Beat the Afternoon Slump

Anna Monette Roberts — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 13:14:05 PDT

It hits you quick, usually at 3 p.m. on the dot. You become fidgety, your brain starts to lose focus, and your eyes begin to droop. Sometimes, caffeine isn't enough to ward off the afternoon slump, so here are some quick ways you can regain your energy and focus, depending on how intense of a boost you need.

Small: Using an acupressure technique, squeeze the webbed skin in between your thumb and pointer finger with the thumb and pointer finger from your opposing hand. Massage the area for about a minute on each hand. This common pressure point will relieve headaches, itchy eyes, and stiffness of the shoulders and arms.
Medium: Besides twisting your body from side to side, consider taking mini breaks every 20 minutes or so to do some quick desk exercises. Learn how to properly sit at your desk, release your neck and wrists, and stretch your back to increase blood flow and energy.
Hard: If you work from home or in an unconventional office setting, do a headstand to reap the most intense yet rewarding energy boost. This inverted pose will circulate all that stagnant blood back through your heart, warm you up, and give you lasting energy.