Support Heart Health: Acupressure for Healthy Cholesterol

High cholesterol is a common health concern that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. While diet, exercise, and prescribed medications are essential for managing cholesterol levels, many people look for natural complementary techniques to support overall heart health.

One such holistic approach is acupressure, a gentle practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that uses targeted pressure points to promote circulation, reduce stress, and improve organ function.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

How acupressure may support healthy cholesterol levels.

The best acupressure points for heart and liver health.

A simple daily routine.

Safety guidelines.

Acupressure involves applying firm, steady pressure to specific points on the body, called acupoints. These points are located along energy pathways known as meridians. Stimulating them can help:

Improve blood circulation.

Reduce stress and inflammation.

Support liver function, which is critical for cholesterol metabolism.

Promote overall cardiovascular health.

While acupressure cannot replace medication for high cholesterol, it can be a supportive practice that complements healthy lifestyle changes.

High cholesterol is often influenced by diet, genetics, and stress. Acupressure may help manage these factors by:

Improving Circulation

Better blood flow supports heart and liver health and helps reduce plaque formation.

Supporting Liver Function

In TCM, the Liver meridian plays a key role in lipid metabolism and overall energy balance.

Reducing Stress

Chronic stress contributes to hormonal imbalances that can worsen cholesterol levels. Acupressure helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering stress hormones like cortisol.

Supporting Digestion

Some acupoints improve digestive function, helping the body metabolize fats more effectively.

Here are the top points traditionally used to support heart, liver, and metabolic health.

1. LR3 – Tai Chong (Great Surge)

Location:

On the top of the foot, between the big toe and second toe.

Benefits:

Supports Liver function

Helps regulate blood fat metabolism

Reduces stress and tension

How to Press:

Apply firm pressure for 1 minute on each foot.

2. ST36 – Zusanli (Leg Three Miles)

Location:

Four fingers below the kneecap, slightly outside the shinbone.

Benefits:

Boosts energy and digestion

Supports nutrient absorption

Improves overall metabolism

How to Press:

Press firmly for 60–90 seconds on each leg.

3. LI11 – Quchi (Pool at the Crook)

Location:

Outer elbow crease when the arm is bent.

Benefits:

Helps reduce inflammation

Supports circulation

Can aid in regulating blood lipid levels

How to Press:

Use your thumb to press for 30–60 seconds on each arm.

4. PC6 – Nei Guan (Inner Gate)

Location:

On the inner forearm, three finger-widths below the wrist crease.

Benefits:

Calms the nervous system

Reduces stress-related cholesterol spikes

Supports heart function

How to Press:

Press gently for 1–2 minutes on each arm.

5. CV12 – Zhongwan (Central Stomach Point)

Location:

Midway between the belly button and the bottom of the sternum.

Benefits:

Supports digestion and nutrient absorption

Helps metabolize fats efficiently

How to Press:

Use your fingertips to apply gentle pressure for 30–60 seconds.

Here’s a simple 5–7 minute daily routine you can perform:

LR3 – 1 minute each foot.

ST36 – 60–90 seconds each leg.

LI11 – 30–60 seconds each arm.

PC6 – 1–2 minutes each arm.

CV12 – 30–60 seconds.

Perform slow, deep breaths while pressing each point to maximize relaxation and circulation.

<Start Guided Practice>

Combine acupressure with a comprehensive heart-healthy lifestyle:

Combine acupressure with a heart-healthy diet (low in saturated fats and high in fiber).

Exercise regularly to improve circulation.

Reduce stress through meditation or yoga.

Stay hydrated to support liver and kidney function.

Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Acupressure is generally safe for most people, but keep these guidelines in mind:

Do not replace prescribed cholesterol medication with acupressure.

Avoid pressing on swollen, bruised, or injured areas.

Pregnant individuals should consult a healthcare professional before certain points like LI11 and ST36.

Always consult a doctor if cholesterol levels remain high or if you have heart conditions.

Acupressure is a gentle, natural technique that may complement lifestyle and dietary strategies to support healthy cholesterol levels. By stimulating key pressure points, it can improve circulation, reduce stress, and help balance the body’s systems—supporting heart health and overall well-being.

For best results, practice daily acupressure, maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle, and follow your healthcare provider’s guidance for managing cholesterol.