Bloating is something we’ve all experienced at some point, and while occasional bloating is usually harmless, chronic bloating can signal deeper imbalances in the body. From dietary choices to stress and digestive disorders, bloating can arise from a variety of triggers. But there’s good news—natural remedies like acupuncture can help bring relief by targeting specific points in the body that restore balance and improve digestion.

At ORA, our approach to wellness is deeply personal. Our Founder and CEO, Kim, struggled with bloating for years before discovering relief through acupuncture. Her first hand experience with the transformative power of holistic healing inspired the creation of ORA. She wanted to help others realize that bloating doesn’t have to be an accepted part of life—and that a better way forward is possible.

Through the ORA Method, we seamlessly combine acupuncture, Red Light Therapy, and meditation to create a comprehensive approach to wellness that targets both the root causes and symptoms of bloating. Here’s how each element works together to support your body’s natural processes and provide relief:

Acupuncture for Bloating

Acupuncture is a time-tested healing practice that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. These points stimulate energy flow, helping to unblock stagnation and restore balance in the body. When it comes to bloating, acupuncture works by regulating digestion, reducing inflammation, and calming the nervous system. The practice addresses the underlying causes of digestive discomfort, rather than just masking the symptoms, making it an ideal choice for long-term relief.

At ORA, our skilled acupuncturists will identify the root cause of your bloating and design a treatment plan tailored specifically for you. Along with acupuncture, our practitioners may recommend supplements or lifestyle changes to further support your digestive health.

Want to experience some relief at home? Try acupressure by gently applying pressure to key acupuncture points that can help reduce bloating.

Acupressure Points for Bloating

Spleen 6 (SP6) - San Yin Jiao: Use your thumb to apply gentle pressure on the inner leg, about four finger-widths above the ankle. Hold for a few minutes while taking deep breaths. This point is known as the meeting point of the three yin channels of the leg (Spleen, Liver, and Kidney), making it particularly effective for harmonizing the digestive system and alleviating water retention and abdominal fullness.

Stomach 36 (ST36) - Zu San Li: Apply pressure with your fingers below the kneecap on the outer side of the leg. Hold and release in intervals to stimulate digestion. Situated below the kneecap on the outer side of the leg, Stomach 36 is often called the "Master Healer" point. It is one of the most commonly used points in acupuncture for digestive issues. Stimulating ST36 helps regulate the stomach and intestines, enhancing digestion and reducing bloating. It also boosts energy levels and strengthens the immune system.

Ren 12 (CV12) - Zhong Wan: Place your fingertips on the midline of your abdomen, halfway between the navel and the sternum. Gently massage in circular motions to ease abdominal discomfort. Ren 12 is a crucial point for addressing digestive disorders. This point helps to harmonize the stomach, relieve abdominal distension, and improve overall digestion. It is particularly effective for treating bloating caused by excess stomach acid or poor digestion.

The Role of Red Light Therapy in Digestion

Incorporating Red Light Therapy (RLT) into your wellness routine can enhance digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut. RLT uses low-level light wavelengths to penetrate the skin, stimulating cellular repair and reducing stress. This can help ease digestive discomfort, boost circulation, and support overall gut health. Regular sessions at ORA can be an essential part of your strategy for combating bloating and digestive imbalances.

Meditation for Stress Relief and Gut Health

Stress is a common trigger for bloating and digestive upset. That’s why the ORA Method includes meditation, which calms the mind, regulates the nervous system, and restores the parasympathetic state—where healing happens. At ORA, we offer meditation in every session  helping you integrate mindful breathing into your daily life. Techniques such as deep breathing or our various breathwork practices  can ease tension in the gut and support healthy digestion. By fostering a state of relaxation, these practices enhance your overall wellness and create a more balanced digestive system.

Nutrition for Digestive Health

In addition to acupuncture and RLT, dietary changes are crucial for managing bloating. Foods that support digestion, like ginger, peppermint, and chamomile, can be easily incorporated into your routine. Try ORA’s Best Digest Tea, made with ingredients like Peach Kernel, Hawthorn Berry, Ginger, and Orange Peel, to soothe digestion and reduce bloating naturally. Adding fermented foods like kimchi and yogurt can also help, as they introduce beneficial probiotics to the gut. And remember, limiting processed foods, excess salt, and carbonated drinks can make a big difference.

Movement for Digestive Ease

Gentle movement is another way to promote healthy digestion and reduce bloating. Practices like Qi Gong, yoga, and even walking can help regulate the digestive system and move energy throughout the body. After meals, a simple walk can do wonders for preventing that uncomfortable feeling of fullness. At ORA, we encourage incorporating movement into your wellness routine to support the work of the ORA Method.

We're Here to Help

If bloating is something you’re dealing with regularly, consider adding acupuncture and the ORA Method to your wellness routine. By addressing both the physical and emotional contributors to digestive discomfort, our holistic approach can provide lasting relief. Through acupuncture, Red Light Therapy, meditation, and mindful lifestyle changes, you’ll be able to restore balance and feel your best.

Curious to see how the ORA Method can help with bloating? Book an appointment at ORA Space for a personalized consultation, and start your journey to better digestive health today.