Stress forms an integral part of life, motivating one to remain focused and productive, but from the other end, uncontrolled stress becomes serious to the mental and bodily well-being. It hampers the healthy flow of energy within the body, which is known as Qi, creating disturbances and leading to further complications in the immune system, chronic pain, digestive problems, sleeping disturbances, headaches, and eventually chronic diseases with the passage of time.
When stress becomes acute, it causes low-grade stress on the nervous system throughout the body. Such stress acts upon the body almost constantly, aggravating the metabolism and stimulating the hypothalamus in the pituitary-adrenal pathway, resulting in the overproduction of stress hormones by the glands. Gradually, they drain energy reserves from the body, leading to fatigue, recession, and a compromised immune response, making things worse for physical and mental health.
Signs of Stress Overload Include:
- anxiety or panic attacks
- feeling rushed, pressured, or overwhelmed
- irritability and mood swings
- stomach issues, headaches, or chest pain
- allergies such as eczema or asthma
- insomnia
- overeating, drinking, smoking, or drug use
- sadness or depression
Stress is an instigator of many maladies, thus creating lassitude in both body and mind. Stress management is, therefore, primary to the health of the individual. In traditional Oriental medicine, stress, unresolved anger, and frustration are seen as disruptive influences on the immune system, which leads the body to become open to illness. Therefore, acupuncture releases such energy blockages, restoring equilibrium and alleviating not only the symptoms of stress but stress itself.
How Acupuncture Helps:
From studies, we know that acupuncture helps to relieve stress. This may be due to its ability to improve the circulation of blood, resulting in the oxygenation of tissues and removal of excess cortisol, amongst other waste products, from the body. Acupuncture also calms down the nervous system, decreases the heart rate and blood pressure, and relaxes tight muscles, imparting a sensation of calmness and balance.
Adjunct Treatments in Oriental Medicine:
Oriental medicine offers effective adjunctive modalities in managing stress, wherein include:
- Tui Na (therapeutic massage)
- Qi Gong exercises
- Dietary therapy
- Meditation
- Acupressure (for use at home)
Although external sources of stress may be out of our control, we are able to control how we respond to them. Taking time to nourish your body and mind will certainly give you leverage over stress. Acupuncture and related practices help provide you with that support to keep you balanced and relatively free from stress.
Bluemoon Acupuncture offers treatments to relieve stress and address stress-related diseases. If you wish to inquire further about how acupuncture can enhance your well-being, please call Bluemoon Acupuncture and Wellness Center, Oro Valley, AZ. The number is 520-505-1442 or contact us through info@bluemoonacupuncture.com.
