Finding Relief Through Acupressure and TCM Self-Care in Richmond and Greater Vancouver
When people come to see me at my clinic, one of the most common things I hear is, “Neil, what can I do at home to help myself feel better between treatments?”
The truth is, while acupuncture sessions at my clinic are an important part of healing, there are also small self-care practices rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that you can do anywhere: at work, before bed, or even while commuting. One of the simplest and most effective tools is acupressure.
Acupressure doesn’t replace professional treatment, but it can be a supportive way to ease everyday discomforts, reduce stress, and feel more connected to your own health. In this blog, I’ll share a few examples I’ve demonstrated in my videos, and how these simple points can make a difference.
Shoulder Pain Relief at Home
Shoulder pain is something I see often, especially from patients across Greater Vancouver who spend long hours at desks. Stiffness, tension, and soreness can build up quickly.
In one of my short videos, I show how to locate the Houxi (SI3) point, found along the side of the hand. A gentle massage here, repeated regularly, can help release tension in the back of the shoulder. Another useful point for side shoulder discomfort is LI10, which you can massage when you feel tightness along the outer arm.
Even a few minutes of daily acupressure can help your body reset and prevent pain from becoming overwhelming.
Self-Care for Dry Eyes and Screen Fatigue
If you live in Greater Vancouver, chances are your lifestyle involves long hours in front of screens — whether for work or study. Dry eyes and eye strain are something I often hear about from patients in Richmond and Surrey.
In a three-part video series, I shared simple acupressure techniques you can try at home:
Midpoint of the eyebrow – gently massage this spot to reduce dryness.
Inner corner near the nose – pressing or pinching here can help refresh tired eyes.
Outer corner of the eye – combined with the other two points, this sliding massage helps ease eye exhaustion.
These are simple, practical steps you can integrate into your day, and they often bring quick relief.
Supporting Emotional Balance and Energy
Traditional Chinese Medicine has always emphasized the link between the body and emotions. For example, when patients tell me they feel easily upset or drained after staying up late, I often guide them to try specific acupressure points.
Near the chest – helps calm emotions and reduce that unsettled feeling of wanting to cry without tears.
At the ribs below the armpit – useful for restoring energy after late nights or exams.
Top of the head – massaging this point clockwise can reduce brain fog and bring clarity.
These practices don’t just address physical symptoms. They can also support your mood and resilience, which is something many of us need in our busy daily lives.
Why Combine Home Care With Professional TCM Treatments
While acupressure and self-care are valuable tools, deeper and longer-lasting relief often requires personalized acupuncture sessions. At my clinic, I work with patients on conditions ranging from chronic pain and fatigue to headaches and digestive health.
Sometimes, a few professional sessions make all the difference in breaking a pattern of discomfort, while self-care techniques keep the progress going between visits.
Final Thoughts
I believe that health is about balance, and small daily habits can play a big role. Whether it’s pressing an acupoint for dry eyes, massaging your shoulders to release tension, or using acupuncture at the clinic to address deeper issues, every step you take matters.
If you’re curious about how acupuncture and TCM can support your health, I welcome you to visit me at Richmond Center. Together, we can explore natural, effective ways to help your body heal and restore balance.
Book a session or explore TCM care at my Richmond or Surrey clinic, I’m here to help you find relief and long-term wellness.
