The perspective of the Donguibogam remains remarkably relevant today. Modern medicine also emphasizes how crucial our body's circulation system is. Numbness in hands and feet, cold hypersensitivity of hands and feet, shoulder stiffness, and headaches are not symptoms that arise simply from fatigue; they can be combined signals indicating subtle disturbances in blood circulation and the nervous system.
One of the most common causes is a peripheral circulatory disorder. When blood is not smoothly delivered to the tips of the hands and feet far from the heart, cells fail to receive adequate oxygen and nutrients, and metabolic waste accumulates. Even without a condition like Raynaud syndrome, in which hands and feet turn markedly colder in low temperatures, similar symptoms can appear when blood vessels constrict and blood viscosity rises due to physical inactivity, stress, or poor posture. In particular, the neck and shoulders frequently experience muscle stiffness from excessive smartphone use or computer work, which compresses surrounding blood vessels and nerves, leading to numbness in hands and feet or headaches. It is similar to watering a garden with a hose that is kinked or filled with thickened fluid, preventing water from reaching the end.
In addition, our autonomic nervous system plays a major role. The autonomic nervous system governs heartbeat, digestion, and thermoregulation automatically, but when its balance is disrupted by stress or irregular lifestyle habits, the sympathetic nerve that constricts blood vessels can become excessively active. This narrows blood vessels and hinders blood circulation, causing coldness or tingling sensations in the hands and feet. Even without a medical diagnosis of neuropathy, mild nerve compression or microvessel circulatory disorders can produce these symptoms.
How can acupressure help? Acupressure goes beyond simply pressing a specific point. Stimulating an acupoint dilates local blood vessels to increase blood flow volume, and as tension in the surrounding muscles relaxes, nerve compression can decrease. Furthermore, research indicates that it activates pain-modulating systems in the brain to help the body ease pain on its own. Much like clearing a congested section of a road to restore smooth movement, acupressure gently relieves stalled circulation. Beyond simply soothing discomfort, it helps restore overall balance throughout the body. Practicing it consistently can help your body feel lighter and warmer.
