Auricular acupressure for weight loss is a simple and easy weight loss method.
There are many acupoints on the ear, and correctly stimulating these points can yield various expected effects.
This article is for those who want to try auricular acupressure for weight loss themselves, explaining the recommended candidates for this method, the locations of acupoints expected to be effective, methods, and precautions.
- What is Auricular Acupressure for Weight Loss?
Auricular acupressure for weight loss is a method aimed at achieving weight loss by stimulating acupoints on the ear.
It is said that there are about 350 acupoints on the ear, and stimulating the corresponding points according to your goals can yield expected effects.
- Relieving stress
- Normalizing appetite
- Improving exercise effectiveness
- Promoting digestion
- Regulating hormonal balance
By stimulating the ear acupoints, the above effects are anticipated.
- Recommended Candidates for Auricular Acupressure Weight Loss
- People who overeat due to excessive stress
- People who unconsciously snack
- People who want to improve their exercise effectiveness
- People with poor gut environment who are prone to constipation
Stimulating the correct acupoints according to your concerns may guide you more easily towards successful weight loss.
- Acupoints Expected to be Effective in Auricular Acupressure for Weight Loss
Name Location Expected Effect
Shen Men The depression at the top part of the ear. Relieves stress, normalizes appetite.
Hunger Point The protrusion in front of the ear hole. Suppresses appetite.
Lung The side surface directly facing the ear hole. Improves exercise effectiveness.
Stomach The area where the central fold of the ear is. Improves stomach function, promotes digestion.
Large Intestine The area near the root of the ear, in the depression of the central part.
Regulates intestinal function, relieves constipation.
Endocrine Directly below the ear hole. Prevents fat accumulation by regulating hormonal balance.
Stimulating these points is believed to aid weight loss.
- Methods for Self-Stimulating Ear Acupoints
Ear acupoints can be easily stimulated by oneself.
Stimulating the ear acupoints about 15-30 minutes before meals can help adjust your appetite to a normal state by mealtime, preventing overeating.
There are two main methods for self-stimulation:
4.1. Stimulating with Index Finger and Thumb
The finger stimulation method requires no cost and has the advantage of being easy to do anytime, anywhere.
The method using the index finger and thumb is as follows:
Hold the acupoint between your index finger and thumb and apply gentle pressure to stimulate it.
Massage for about 3 seconds each time, repeating about 3 times.
After the massage, gently rub the entire ear to relax.
For those unsure about the pressure, ear seeds are recommended.
4.2. Stimulating with Ear Seeds
By applying ear seeds, the acupoints receive continuous stimulation, making auricular acupressure easier than using fingers and thumbs.
Ear seeds are small transparent patches with pellets made of titanium, metal, or ceramic that are applied to the acupoints.
There are also decorative ear studs available embedded with Swarovski crystals, glass, pearls, etc., which might be worth looking into.
How to Use Ear Seeds:
Thoroughly clean the ear to remove any residue, sebum, or dirt not washed off during bathing.
Press on the acupoint with a cotton swab or the non-pointed end of a toothpick.
Choose one sensitive/painful point on one ear.
Apply the ear seed patch, ensuring it adheres closely to the skin without air bubbles.
Gently press the pellet on the patch about 3 times a day to stimulate the point.
Remove after about 4-5 days, and apply a new one to the other ear in the same manner.
- What to Be Careful About When Self-Stimulating Ear Acupoints?
When self-stimulating ear acupoints, apply pressure that feels comfortable, being careful not to use excessive force.
If the stimulation is too strong, it might injure the ear.
If you feel intense pain that persists, please consult a medical institution.
To prevent bacteria from entering the ear and causing infection, perform the massage only when both your ears and hands are clean.
Also, the adhesive or patches of ear seeds might cause allergic reactions or contact dermatitis, so it’s advisable to check beforehand.
- Try Auricular Acupressure as an Aid for Weight Loss
By stimulating the correct acupoints, auricular acupressure is expected to support weight loss efforts.
There are two main methods: finger stimulation and using ear seeds.
Please try the method that suits you best.
While stimulating the ear acupoints, it’s also important to review your dietary and exercise habits.
Keep the precautions in mind and make good use of auricular acupressure.
