Gas and bloating are common complaints that can leave you feeling heavy, uncomfortable, and sometimes even in pain. They happen when air gets trapped in the stomach or intestines, slowing down digestion. While lifestyle and diet changes are important, one gentle, natural technique many people turn to for quick relief is acupressure.
Unlike acupuncture, which involves needles, acupressure simply uses the pressure of your hands and fingers. By stimulating certain points on the body, you can encourage smoother digestion, reduce bloating, and release trapped gas.
How Acupressure Helps Digestion
Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that the body’s energy—known as “qi” (chi)—flows along pathways called meridians. When this flow is blocked, it can lead to problems such as indigestion, pain, and bloating. Acupressure works by unblocking these pathways, which in turn helps the stomach and intestines function more efficiently.
Beyond improving gut movement, pressing these points also promotes relaxation. That matters because stress is a well-known trigger for digestive issues. In short, acupressure can support both your body and your mind.
4 Acupressure Points for Gas and Bloating
If you’re feeling gassy or uncomfortably full, here are four powerful points that can bring relief. Each one supports digestion in a slightly different way.
1. Stomach 36 (Zu San Li) – The All-Rounder for Digestion
Located just below the knee, this is considered one of the most important points for overall digestive health. Regularly stimulating it can help prevent bloating, ease gas, and strengthen stomach function.
How to do it: Sit comfortably, find the point about four fingers below your knee and slightly to the outside, and press in circular motions for 2–3 minutes.
2. Spleen 6 (San Yin Jiao) – For Digestion and Relaxation
This point, found a few inches above the inner ankle, is known to support both digestion and stress relief. It’s also commonly used for women’s health and hormone balance.
How to do it: Apply firm pressure with your thumb for 1–2 minutes while breathing deeply.
3. Large Intestine 4 (He Gu) – The Pain Reliever
Found on the back of your hand, between the thumb and index finger, this point is famous for reducing pain and discomfort. It can ease stomach cramps and help the digestive system move more smoothly.
How to do it: Press firmly for 1–2 minutes while breathing slowly. (Note: This point should be avoided during pregnancy, as it may stimulate labor.)
4. Conception Vessel 12 (Zhongwan) – The Core of Digestion
This point sits midway between the belly button and the breastbone. It connects directly to the stomach and intestines and is especially useful if you feel overly full after eating.
How to do it: Using two fingers, press gently for 1–2 minutes while keeping your stomach relaxed.
Other Natural Ways to Prevent Bloating
Acupressure can bring quick relief, but making a few simple lifestyle changes will help prevent bloating from becoming a regular issue:
Watch your diet: Limit beans, carbonated drinks, dairy, and artificial sweeteners if they trigger discomfort. Instead, sip on warm water, ginger tea, or peppermint tea after meals.
Stay hydrated: Drinking enough fluids keeps digestion running smoothly. Warm water works better than cold, which can sometimes shock the stomach.
Adopt better habits: Eat slowly, chew thoroughly, avoid overeating, and take short walks after meals to encourage digestion.
Final Thoughts
Acupressure is a safe, inexpensive, and natural way to ease gas and bloating. With just your hands and a few minutes of focused pressure, you can help your digestive system feel lighter and more efficient. When combined with mindful eating and healthy lifestyle habits, it can make a big difference in how your body feels day to day.
