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These pesky things can crop up at the most inconvenient times, usually when there is excessive food or drink in the stomach. Drink a glass of water upside-down, put salt on the back of your tongue, jump out from around the corner and yell 'BOO!', breathe into a paper bag are all 'remedies' I've heard of. Since hiccups are spasms of rhythm, however, relaxation is the key to relieving them. So what could be better than to research herbs and acupressure? HERBS Naturally, the best procedure would be to start 'simple'. Jethro Kloss, in his book BACK TO EDEN, says 'that the juice of half an orange will usually stop hiccoughs' What could be easier! Also, tea made from black or blue cohosh, taken separately, or mixed in equal parts, is good. ACUPRESSURE If you don't have an orange or the herbs handy, you will have your fingertips wherever you go. At the office, at a party, in an elevator, you can apply pressure to targeted points and achieve relief. Make yourself as comfortable as possible and remember to breathe DEEPLY when using acupressure. (If you haven't as yet completed your research into Acupressure, please review my article, LAYMAN'S ACUPUNCTURE--Part 2). Heaven Rushing Out This pointed is located in between the collarbones at the base of the throat. Hold one full minute, breathing deeply, slowly. Sea of Tranquility Located three thumb-widths up from the bottom of the breastbone. Take three fingers and apply pressure for one minute. (These first two points can be targeted at the same time.) Wind Screen This is located behind the earlobe in the indentation on both sides of your head. Using two fingers, apply light pressure for one minute. Elegant Mansion Find this point in the hollows below the collarbone next to the breastbone. Concentrate on taking one deep breath while holding the point for 30 seconds. Center of Power This no-nonsense point is powerful. So if you have a serious illness, DO NOT press too deeply. Even if you don't have a serious illness, DO NOT hold this point for more than two minutes. This point is so powerful, it relieves headaches, emotion stress, and constipation. Located on the stomach, three finger-widths below the breast bone. Place all your fingers, left and right hand, on point, and apply pressure slowly at an upward angle. Hold for one minute. You can do one or two of the above and expect relief. So don't just stand there while everyone laughs because you have the hiccups. SHOW them that you know what do to get rid of them. Talk about being the life of the party!!