BLOG 303: BLOCKED SINUSES? YOUR EASY FACIAL MASSAGE ROUTINE

As anyone who has ever dealt with blocked sinuses will know, congestion around the nose and face can leave you feeling miserable. As well as messing with your breathing, blocked sinuses can make you feel tired and disrupt everyday activities (including your precious sleep!). Some people even experience painful headaches, tooth pain, loss of taste, and tender cheeks due to excess mucus blocking the sinuses. Not fun! While many people turn to medications for relief, there is another solution which I have taught my clients for the past 20 years – facial acupressure.

Wondering where to start? In this handy guide, I’ll show you how to achieve quick results using a few simple facial massage techniques that will get things moving again. If you’re more of a visual learner, I’ve also uploaded a helpful demonstration video on my YouTube channel. 

Before we get started – a quick caveat. It’s important to understand that these strategies may not work for all cases of blocked sinuses. While almost everyone experiences sinus pain and discomfort from time to time, chronic or severe sinus issues are best addressed by your doctor. 

1. Focus on the nostrils

Carefully place both index fingers on either side of your nose, right next to your nostrils. Start by applying light pressure, preferably breathing through your nose with your lips closed. If you’re especially bunged up, you may need to breathe gently through your mouth at first. 

Next, circulate your fingers gently in one direction for between twenty and thirty seconds. Switch direction and repeat this step, increasing the pressure if you feel the need. 

2. Move to the bridge of the nose

For the next step, you’ll need to move your index fingers all the way up to either side of the bridge of your nose. Again, try to keep your lips closed and breathe through your nose (but don’t worry if you’re not there yet!). Before you start the next stage of the massage, I recommend having a tissue on hand, as you may start to feel some movement in your sinuses. 

As with the last step, start moving your fingers using circular motions, applying as much pressure as feels comfortable and effective. Continue this process for twenty to thirty seconds and switch directions. If necessary, you may wish to blow your nose at this stage. 

3. Apply your thumbs to either side of the nostrils

To complete the next step, place both thumbs flat against either side of your nostrils. Using a sweeping motion and applying comfortable pressure, move the thumbs upwards and outwards across your cheekbones. This movement will help to clear your pathways even more, so remember to have your tissue to hand!

4. Focus on the corners of the eyes

Last but not least, place your index fingers in the inside corners of your eyes and repeat a circular motion in both directions. After completing this step, you should start to feel some relief. 

Repeat (and look after yourself!)

I recommend repeating these steps twice a day if you’re feeling congested and uncomfortable. You may need to continue massaging your face for several days, especially if you’re suffering from a stubborn cold. Remember – sinuses become blocked for all sorts of reasons, from allergies to infections, so it’s worth making a mental note of these helpful steps. 

If you’re suffering from a winter bug, I also encourage you to look after yourself in other ways. Good rest, nutritious food, and a little pampering will go a long way.

Feeling inspired by the power of Face Yoga?

As you can see, Face Yoga techniques like this have the potential to improve your wellbeing and brighten your day. Even better? It’s so safe and simple. If you’re new to the concept of Face Yoga, I recommend my 7 Day Course which is only £21 for lifetime access to uplifting daily techniques for your face.