Applied kinesiology is a holistic approach to health promotion based on the interaction between muscle function, the nervous system, organ systems, autonomic regulation, and emotional experience. It was developed in the 1960s by American chiropractor Dr. George Goodheart.

The focus is on muscle monitoring—a standardized, body-based testing method that serves as physiological biofeedback. It allows conclusions about the regulatory capacity of organs and the autonomic and limbic nervous systems.

Muscles that show chronic over- or under-activity often indicate long-term stress and persistent activation of the so-called “limbic survival mode” (fight-or-flight response). Targeted manual stimuli through acupressure can regulate muscular imbalances and functional disorders in the corresponding organ systems and relax the nervous system. Neuromuscular coordination improves, and autonomic processes are harmonized.

The method is non-invasive and can support both physical and mental regulation, e.g., for stress, functional complaints, or health prevention.