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Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Treatments for Stress
Treatment for stress at our clinics in the Merrion Shopping Centre, Dublin 4 and George's Street, Dún Laoghaire.
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 its 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 may help ease both the physical and emotional effects of stress. Acupuncture is often combined with acupressure (therapeutic Chinese massage) as the two work well together. Herbal remedies can also help facilitate treatment administered in our clinics.
Common signs of stress
Trouble getting to sleep or waking during the night
Headaches and a tight neck, jaw or shoulders
Upset stomach, bloating or reflux
Feeling irritable, on edge or low
Tiredness that rest does not fix
What does a session feel like?
You lie down in a quiet, warm treatment room while very fine needles are placed at chosen points. Most people feel a slight tingle or heaviness, then a strong sense of calm, and some fall asleep. Sessions last 30 to 60 minutes and are often combined with acupressure massage on the neck, shoulders and back.
Small things that help between sessions
Slow breathing for a few minutes each day, a short walk outdoors, going to bed at a regular time and cutting back on caffeine in the afternoon all support the work done in the clinic.
Related treatments: Insomnia, Mental Health, Low Energy and Workplace Wellness.
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.