A 7-Day Gentle Acupressure and Foot-Care Starter Routine
This 7-day routine combines gentle acupressure points with simple foot-care movements. It's designed for beginners who want a structured way to explore these practices safely.
Each day takes about 10 minutes. The goal is not to treat anything - it's simply to notice how gentle pressure and movement feel in your body.
Important Safety Warning
If you are pregnant, take medication, or have a medical condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before trying any self-care practice. Full safety notes.
Before You Start
- Read our Gentle Acupressure for Beginners article first - it explains the technique, safety rules, and who should avoid acupressure.
- If you've done a foot bath, dry your feet thoroughly before applying pressure.
- Skip any day if you're tired, unwell, or not in the mood. This is not an obligation.
- SP-6 (Sanyinjiao) point is traditionally avoided during pregnancy - skip it if pregnant or may be pregnant.
The 7-Day Schedule
Day 1: Yongquan (Bubbling Spring) - Sole of the Foot
Press gently into the depression on the sole of your right foot for 30-60 seconds. Switch to the left foot. That's it for day one. Just one point.
Day 2: Yongquan + Ankle Circles
Same point as day 1, plus: sit comfortably and rotate each ankle 10 times clockwise, then 10 times counter-clockwise. The movement helps your ankles feel loose and warm.
Day 3: Add Taixi (Inner Ankle)
Press Yongquan on both feet as before. Then find Taixi - the depression between your inner ankle bone and Achilles tendon. Press gently for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Day 4: Add Taichong (Top of Foot)
Continue with Yongquan and Taixi. Then find Taichong - between the first and second toe tendons, about two finger-widths back. Press gently for 30-60 seconds on each foot.
Day 5: Add Zusanli (Below the Knee)
Continue the three foot points. Then find Zusanli - about four finger-widths below your kneecap, one finger-width outside your shinbone. Press gently for 30-60 seconds on each leg.
Day 6: Add Sanyinjiao (Inner Leg)
Skip this point if pregnant. Otherwise, continue all previous points and add Sanyinjiao - about four finger-widths above your inner ankle bone, just behind the shinbone. Press gently for 30-60 seconds on each leg.
Day 7: Full Routine + Gentle Foot Stretch
Complete all five points in sequence. Then finish with: gently pull each toe - a light wiggle, nothing aggressive. Roll your ankle 10 times each direction. Sit quietly for one minute and notice how you feel.
How to Adjust
- If a point feels uncomfortable, skip it and try again another day.
- If you only have 3 minutes, just do Yongquan and Taichong - the two easiest points to reach.
- If you miss a day, don't catch up. Just continue from the current day.
- If any point causes pain, stop. Acupressure should never hurt.
When to Stop and Seek Professional Care
Stop the routine immediately if you experience pain, bruising, dizziness, nausea, or any unexpected reaction. If symptoms persist or concern you, see a qualified healthcare professional.