Stress &Anxiety: tips to beat it
Stress has become an increasingly prevalent issue in modern society, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. While there are various methods to manage stress, acupuncture offers a unique and holistic approach that targets both the physical and mental aspects of stress. Originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture has gained recognition worldwide for its effectiveness in alleviating stress and promoting overall well-being.
Balancing Energy Flow:
According to TCM principles, stress arises from an imbalance in the body's vital energy, known as Qi. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles at specific points along meridians to restore the flow of Qi. By balancing the body's energy, acupuncture helps to reduce stress levels and induce a sense of relaxation.
Regulation of Neurotransmitters:
Research has shown that acupuncture stimulates the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, which are known to promote feelings of happiness and relaxation. These neurochemicals counteract the effects of stress hormones like cortisol, thereby reducing stress and anxiety.
Modulation of the Autonomic Nervous System:
Acupuncture has been found to regulate the autonomic nervous system, which governs the body's stress response. By modulating sympathetic and parasympathetic activity, acupuncture helps to promote a state of equilibrium, leading to reduced stress levels and improved resilience.
Psychological Benefits:
Beyond its physiological effects, acupuncture offers psychological benefits by promoting mindfulness and emotional awareness. The therapeutic process of acupuncture encourages individuals to become more attuned to their bodies and emotions, fostering a greater sense of self-awareness and emotional resilience.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, acupuncture provides a multifaceted approach to stress relief by addressing the underlying imbalances in the body's energy, regulating neurotransmitter activity, and modulating the autonomic nervous system. With its holistic philosophy and evidence-based efficacy, acupuncture offers a promising solution for individuals seeking natural and sustainable stress management strategies.
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6 quick Tips to cope with anxiety
Outside of Acupuncture, Here are some additional tools to help reduce stress and anxiety:
Question your thought pattern
Negative thoughts can take root in your mind and distort the severity of the situation. One way is to challenge your fears, ask if they’re true, and see where you can take back control.
Practice focused, deep breathing
Try breathing in for 4 counts and breathing out for 4 counts for 5 minutes total. By evening out your breath, you’ll slow your heart rate which should help calm you down.
Use aromatherapy
Whether they’re in oil form, incense, or a candle, scents like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood can be very soothing. Aromatherapy is thought to help activate certain receptors in your brain that potentially ease anxiety.
Exercise
Go for a walk or do 15 minutes of yoga. Sometimes, the best way to stop anxious thoughts is to walk away from the situation. Taking some time to focus on your body and not your mind may help relieve your anxiety.
Write down your thoughts
Writing down what’s making you anxious gets it out of your head and can make it less daunting.
Spend more time with your four legged, furry friends
Spend more quality time with your pets. Studies have shown that interacting with pets has a very strong effect on lowering your stress level.
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**References:**
1. Ee, C., Xue, C., Chondros, P., Myers, S., French, S., Teede, H., & Pirotta, M. (2018). Acupuncture for Menopausal Hot Flashes: A Randomized Trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, 169(6), 375–384.
2. Jindal, V., Ge, A., Mansky, P., & Nahin, R. (2008). Characterization of Acupuncture Use in the United States. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(6), 737–743.
3. Kim, M., Kim, K., Lee, H., Choi, T., & Ernst, E. (2011). Acupuncture for Treating Hot Flashes in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, 130(1), 979–985.