Fatigue: Acupressure Points & Self-Care

Fatigue is a feeling of weariness, tiredness or lack of energy. It is different from drowsiness, the need to sleep. It has many possible causes, including anemia, depression, sleep disorders and thyroid problems, and some medicines, such as antihistamines, can cause it.

Traditional use: in TCM, points such as ST-36, CV-6 and SP-6 are traditionally used for tiredness and low energy.

Recognizing Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

  • Weariness or tiredness
  • Lack of energy and motivation

Primary Points for Fatigue

Select a point to learn more.

Additional Support Points

Select a point to learn more.

Self-Care Acupressure Routines

Fatigue Routine (10 minutes)

  1. Choose a time when you can focus
  2. Sit upright with feet flat on the floor and breathe slowly: inhale for 4 counts, exhale for 6 counts (5 cycles)
  3. Massage ST-36 vigorously for 1-2 minutes each leg
  4. Press CV-6 slowly and lightly for 1-2 minutes while breathing out; never push deep into the belly
  5. Press SP-6 for 1 minute each leg
  6. For deep exhaustion: add KI-3 for 1 minute each ankle
  7. Optional: include BL-20
  8. Finish with gentle neck rolls and shoulder shrugs

Everyday Considerations

Home care

  • Sleep: Get enough sleep each night
  • Exercise: Exercise regularly
  • Caffeine: Stimulants, including caffeine, are not effective treatments for fatigue

Pregnancy

  • Traditionally avoided during pregnancy: CV-6, SP-6. Skip these points if you are or may be pregnant.

When to Seek Medical Care

Contact your provider right away if you have

  • Confusion or dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Thoughts of harming yourself or of suicide

Make an appointment if you have

  • Unexplained weakness or fatigue, especially with a fever, unintentional weight loss or regular sweats