4 Massage Techniques to Help with Allergies

I moved to Oklahoma from Alaska almost four years ago and had heard of the elusive seasonal allergy problems people suffered from but never experienced them until then. As it turns out I am allergic to Oklahoma.

Allergies occur when the body is overloaded with toxins and stress. This can range from pollen and chemicals to the emotional feeling of a lack of safety.

Massage is one natural alternative that can play an important role in helping relieve symptoms. Through certain reflexology points and pressure points we can reduce and eliminate the need to rely on medications. These points – located on our body from head to toe – will relieve sinus pressure and headaches.

With continued practice you will see a life practically free of drippy, achy ailments. Massage is also known to reduce cortisol levels and stimulate the immune system thereby helping fight the severity of allergy symptoms.

Here are a few points to help relieve your symptoms

1. Lymph Drainage Reflexology Point

This point located on your feet focuses on drainage in the axillary lymph nodes. To stimulate this point apply a little pressure with the knuckle of your index finger closer to the base of the V between your first two toes and stroke down towards the toes. Then lift the knuckle and resposition at the top of the V again. Repeat 30 times.

2. The Valley of Harmony

Stimulating this point will relieve headaches, sinus pain and sore throat. Found in the web (or V)  between your thumb and index finger, apply pressure with the opposite hand using your thumb and index finger. You’ll know you’re in the right spot when you feel a slight discomfort when pressure is applied. Hold for two minutes then switch hands.

3. Eyebrows and Nose

To rid yourself of a headache, place the base of your thumbs on the inner edge of your eyebrows, apply pressure and stroke in a downward motion ending at the base of the nose. Then repeat re-positioning at the eyebrows again.

4. Wind Mansion

My favorite point to relieve head congestion for clients is located at the base of the occiput on both sides of the C1 vertebrae.  Massage clockwise in a circular pattern until you feel relief.

Using these techniques in conjunction with other homeopathic remedies, such as a neti pot and Peace of Green Aromatherapy, will help relieve your allergies even in the severest of seasons.