A non-intrusive precursor of acupuncture, acupressure stimulates the flow of vital energy, or chi, circulating along the body’s meridians and influencing the functioning of certain internal organs. By applying thumb and fingertip pressure, specific symptoms are relieved and balance is restored to the entire body. Used by the Chinese for at least 5,000 years, it is said to be effective for treating stress, sciatica, arthritis, headaches, fatigue and general irritability. Other forms of acupressure include jin shin jitsu, shiatsu, zen shiatsu, shen tao, jin shen, jin shen do, tuina, acu-yoga and do-in. One thousand hours of training are required to become an acupressure therapist. An additional 150 hours of training at a fully approved school are needed for certification.