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Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Treatments for Stress
How our Body reacts to Stress
Our bodies are designed to react to threats whether real or perceived. When we feel stressed, energy in the body is directed away from normal physiological functioning. The sympathetic nervous system (which branches from the central nervous system) is triggered into a 'fight or flight' response. This can have an effect on our digestive and respiratory systems, our hormonal system and impact our cardiovascular and reproductive systems.
While this natural reaction is effective at preparing the body for a real threat, stress, experienced over time, produces the same effects on the body. Cortisol (a stress hormone) is elevated, blood pressure increases and immune function is impaired. The impact of this, physically and emotionally, can manifest as a range of conditions.
Stress and it's Effects on the Body
Treatment for Stress with Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
From a Chinese Medicine perspective if stress is experienced over a prolonged period of time it has the effect of interrupting the natural flow of energy in the body. In Chinese medicine, energy flows along channels in the body. These energy channels (meridians) are mapped throughout the body, consisting of main channels and branch into secondary channels. An interruption in the natural flow of this energy due to stress in one part of the body can impact other parts of the body.
If the natural flow of energy is impeded (as a result of stress) then the body fails to function in its natural state of health.
Acupuncture uses fine needles to unblock energy so that it can flow freely in the body. This is effective at alleviating not only the symptoms of stress, but stress itself. Acupuncture is often combined with acupressure (therapeutic Chinese massage) as both together can achieve best results. Herbal remedies can also help facilitate treatment administered in our clinics.
Acupuncture is fast acting and differences are often experienced after the first treatment.
When it comes to acupuncture treatments, it is important to choose a skilled and qualified practitioner with the knowledge and experience to achieve optimal results. Book with us today in the knowledge that you are in the best of hands.