Easy Acupressure Tips for Relieving a Hangover

By Drew on 21st September, 2009

Photo By Kevin Briody

“I am never drinking again”. How many times have you uttered those words while heading into work after a night out on the town? It is a wise thought, but an idea that is often impossible to stick to. There is nothing worse than having your boss chew you out for a mistake while your head is pounding and your stomach is gurgling.

When you’ve partied a little too heartily, only time will completely clear your head and settle your stomach. That isn’t something you necessarily want to hear, but there is some good news. There are actually a few simple detox techniques can speed the process along and have you walking with a little extra kick in your step in no time. It will be a lot better than dragging through a 9 hour work day with a pounding headache, trust me.

Hangover Relief Through Acupressure Tip #1

To help relieve nausea and headaches, press your thumbs into the muscles and acupressure points along your skull and neck. Start by placing your thumbs at the base of your skull, one on each side of the upper spine. Press in for two breaths, release, and move outwards. Repeat until you’re 3 cm or so away from your ears. Return to the upper spine and press on each side again, inching your thumbs down your neck until you reach the top of the shoulders.

Hangover Relief Through Acupressure Tip #2

Lend your detoxification filters a hand by gently pummeling your kidneys, helping to break up toxic crystal deposits. Leaning over slightly, reach behind yourself and gently pound behind your ribs, about 12 times on each side, using comfortable pressure.

Hangover Relief Through Acupressure Tip #3

The acupressure point known as Spleen 16 is a classic target for relief from hangover symptoms. Using the fingertips of one hand, find the bottom of your rib cage and move your hand directly in line with your nipple. Feel for a slight indentation in the bone, and then press gently upwards into the ribs. Hold the point for a count of ten seconds. Repeat on the other side.

An Extra Tip for Hangover Relief

Drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body, adding a little lemon juice also helps the detoxification effect. Resuscitate yourself with a cool compress on which you’ve sprinkled three drops of lavender, peppermint or rosemary essential oil. If you’re nauseous, use rose or sandalwood oil instead. Take a vitamin B supplement before your binge as this will help you feel better the next morning.

Now these tips aren’t necesarily going to have you jumping around and screaming with joy, but they are going to ease the pain of a nasty hangover. This doesn’t mean that non stop tequila shots on a wednesday night are a good idea, but at least you won’t consider jumping out the window of your office before noon.