Acupressure Course

Lesson 1 • Meridian System Overview

Maps the 12 primary meridians and 8 extraordinary vessels as energy pathways. Establishes the anatomical reference system used throughout the course.

Lesson 2 • Principles of Point Selection

Explains how acupressure points are chosen based on location, function, and energetic action. Lays the decision-making foundation for all subsequent technique chapters.

Lesson 3 • Yin, Yang, and Five Elements

Introduces the dualistic Yin-Yang model and Five Element theory as diagnostic frameworks. Students apply these models to understand client imbalances.

Lesson 4 • Origins and History of Acupressure

Traces acupressure from ancient Chinese medicine to modern practice. Contextualises its evolution alongside acupuncture and other bodywork traditions.

Lesson 1 • Extraordinary Vessel Key Points

Identifies master and coupled points of the 8 extraordinary vessels. Connects these points to systemic and constitutional treatment strategies.

Lesson 2 • Surface Anatomy for Practitioners

Reviews musculoskeletal landmarks, bony prominences, and soft tissue structures relevant to point location. Bridges Western anatomy with TCM body mapping.

Lesson 3 • Palpation and Point Confirmation

Develops tactile sensitivity to detect Ah-shi points, tissue texture changes, and tenderness. Students learn to confirm point location through client feedback.

Lesson 4 • Cun Measurement System

Teaches the proportional body-inch (cun) system for individualised point location. Students practise measuring on diverse body types to ensure accuracy.

Lesson 1 • Pressure Depth and Duration

Defines appropriate pressure gradients from superficial to deep and optimal hold durations per point. Students calibrate pressure to tissue response and client tolerance.

Lesson 2 • Sequence and Flow of a Session

Structures a complete session from opening to closing, including point sequencing logic. Students practise maintaining therapeutic flow without interrupting client relaxation.

Lesson 3 • Hand and Finger Mechanics

Establishes correct hand posture, finger positioning, and wrist alignment to maximise effectiveness and prevent practitioner injury. Forms the physical foundation of all techniques.

Lesson 4 • Body Mechanics and Self-Care

Addresses practitioner posture, stance, and movement to sustain a long career without injury. Integrates self-care practices to maintain practitioner health.

Lesson 1 • TCM Diagnostic Methods

Applies the four TCM examinations: looking, listening/smelling, asking, and touching. Students synthesise findings into a coherent TCM pattern diagnosis.

Lesson 2 • Contraindications and Safety Screening

Identifies absolute and relative contraindications including pregnancy, skin conditions, and acute injury. Establishes safe practice boundaries for all client populations.

Lesson 3 • Health History and Intake Forms

Designs comprehensive intake processes capturing medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. Identifies contraindications and precautions before treatment begins.

Lesson 4 • Pattern Differentiation Fundamentals

Translates assessment data into TCM patterns such as Qi deficiency, Blood stasis, and Dampness. Guides point selection based on identified patterns.

Lesson 1 • Digestive and Abdominal Disorders

Treats nausea, bloating, constipation, and IBS-type symptoms through Stomach and Spleen meridian work. Integrates dietary lifestyle advice as adjunct support.

Lesson 2 • Respiratory and Immune Support

Strengthens Lung and Wei Qi to address colds, allergies, and respiratory weakness. Builds immunity-enhancing point protocols for preventive care.

Lesson 3 • Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep Issues

Calms the Shen and regulates the nervous system through Heart, Pericardium, and Liver meridian points. Addresses insomnia, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation.

Lesson 4 • Women's Health and Hormonal Balance

Addresses menstrual irregularities, PMS, and menopausal symptoms through Ren, Chong, and Liver meridian work. Adapts protocols for cycle phase and age.

Lesson 1 • Geriatric Client Considerations

Addresses fragile skin, reduced tissue resilience, and polypharmacy in older adults. Adjusts session length and pressure to ensure comfort and safety.

Lesson 2 • Athletes and Performance Recovery

Uses acupressure for pre-event preparation, post-event recovery, and sports injury support. Integrates with athletic training and physical therapy contexts.

Lesson 3 • Prenatal and Postnatal Acupressure

Provides safe protocols for each trimester and postpartum recovery, avoiding forbidden points. Addresses morning sickness, back pain, and labour preparation.

Lesson 4 • Paediatric Acupressure Adaptations

Modifies pressure, duration, and point selection for infants and children. Addresses common paediatric complaints including colic, fever, and sleep disruption.

Lesson 1 • Influential and Command Points

Uses the eight influential points and four command points for broad systemic effects. Integrates these high-impact points into complex prescriptions.

Lesson 2 • Five Element Treatment Strategies

Applies generating and controlling cycle logic to select points that address elemental imbalances. Builds multi-meridian protocols from Five Element diagnosis.

Lesson 3 • Integrating Microsystem Points

Incorporates ear, hand, and foot microsystem points to enhance and extend treatment effects. Teaches microsystem mapping and point correspondence principles.

Lesson 4 • Eight Extraordinary Vessel Protocols

Activates extraordinary vessels for deep constitutional, hormonal, and structural treatment. Pairs master and coupled points for amplified therapeutic effect.

Lesson 1 • Informed Consent and Confidentiality

Establishes protocols for obtaining valid informed consent and protecting client health information. Builds trust through transparent communication and data security.

Lesson 2 • Documentation and Record Keeping

Teaches SOAP note writing and session documentation for continuity of care and legal protection. Standardises record formats for professional practice settings.

Lesson 3 • Scope of Practice and Legal Boundaries

Defines what acupressure practitioners can and cannot do within professional and regulatory frameworks. Prevents unauthorised medical diagnosis or treatment claims.

Lesson 4 • Professional Boundaries and Ethics

Addresses dual relationships, transference, and maintaining appropriate therapeutic boundaries. Guides ethical decision-making in complex client situations.