While violence and war have plagued many soldiers with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), ancient Eastern medicine may be able to provide some holistic relief by improving cognition.

Researchers at the University of Colorado have conducted a study which reveals that individuals with head trauma who were treated with acupressure had significant improvements on cognitive tests, when compared to a control group.

The participants were administered Jin Shin acupressure from trained professionals. This type of treatment focuses on medians – also known as chakras – along the center of the body.

"Think of the meridians as freeways and the pressure points as towns along the way. When there is a traffic jam in Denver that causes adverse effects as far away as Boulder, clearing the energy blocks, or in this case traffic jams, helps improve flow and overall health," said lead author Theresa Hernandez.

Ilchi Lee, author of Healing Chakras, says that channeling these energy hubs and clearing them of negativity may help lead an individual toward personal development and enlightenment. People who wish to experience the healing power of acupressure may do well in adding some meditative practices that focus on the various chakras.