A 4-Point Acupressure Routine To Strengthen Lung Health & Immunity

While there is a lot we still don't know about COVID-19, it does seem to be spread by respiratory droplets and cause symptoms in the upper and/or lower respiratory. This means that one of the best ways we can protect ourselves from the virus (in addition to practicing social distancing and wearing a mask) is to take care of our lung health and immunity.

Energetically speaking, the lung meridian takes in the new, gets rid of the old, and relates to our ability to process grief. This year, grief has become an increasingly common experience in our society. Now is the time to strengthen our ability to cope with collective trauma and transform.

Acupressure is a convenient, simple, and safe practice you can do at home. It uses some of the same acupoints and meridians as acupuncture, but instead of using needles, you simply apply pressure to these points with your hands.

Here are a couple of points to start with—all of which help the lungs in some shape or form.

This point helps in the process of letting go. It's thought to disperse energy, help to release emotions, and expand lung capacity to deliver more oxygen around the body.

Location: Cross your arms as if you're giving yourself a hug. Wrap your fingers around the upper arms and your thumbs will naturally land in the hollow space under the clavicle, and above the armpit crease. The point is located on the lateral edge of the chest, between the first and second rib (sometimes level with the second rib). This area should feel tender to the touch.

This point opens up the lungs, frees up chi, and strengthens our body's defensive energy. This is also a great point to release emotions of grief. As this point links the lung and the large intestine meridians, it can also work to move the bowels.

Location: Intersect your index fingers and thumbs of both hands. Let the index finger of one hand land on top of the radial styloid process. The point is located under the tip of the index finger.

In meridian theory, the large Intestines and the lung meridian are closely related. Large intestine 4 is a master point for easing pain in the body, especially pain in the head and face, and supporting immunity. Be mindful not to stimulate this point during pregnancy.

Location: Stretch out your hand facedown. There should be a "V" that forms between the web of the thumb and index finger. This point is approximately in the center of the web; palpate for the most tender spot.

The liver meridian is closely associated with negative emotions like anxiety, anger, and stress. Psychological stress can often stimulate stress response in the body, and as a result, lower our immune defense. So it is no surprise that when we stimulate the liver, it can benefit our immune system too.

Location: This point is located on the top of your foot, between the web of the big and the second toe. Slide your index finger up the web; the point is in the depression just before the junction of the two metatarsal bones.

The lung meridian corresponds to pungent (or spicy) taste in five-element theory. By increasing the intake of such foods, we support lung health and nourish overall chi and blood circulation. Some examples are ginger, mint, scallion, daikon radish, garlic, pear, leeks, and rice. You will probably also notice these "lung tonic" foods are mostly white in color, an easier way to help you identify them.

While these lung-supporting practices alone aren't enough to protect you from contracting COVID-19, they're great tools to have in your tool belt.