Do you feel anxious multiple times a day? Do you know that you don’t need to worry, but you still can’t seem to calm down?
You’re not alone. This fast-paced world we live in gives us many reasons to worry, and even more so during 2020. There are a number of ways to combat anxiety, including taking prescribed medication. But more and more people are looking for natural remedies from cold showers to breathing exercises to CBD oil to acupuncture.
Although acupuncture has been around for thousands of years, Western scientists are still looking into the effects acupuncture has on a variety of diseases and disorders. When it comes to anxiety, acupuncture can treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and other anxiety disorders, including panic attacks, seasonal affective disorder, post-partum and post-traumatic stress disorder.
So, the burning question is can acupuncture cure anxiety? Over a period of time, it can. We will explain why acupuncture may be an effective treatment for your anxiety. And if this will be your first time undergoing acupuncture, rest assured that you will experience little to no pain.
What is Anxiety and its Effects on the Body?
Many people know they have anxiety, but they don’t know what happens in their body to trigger it. Today’s world can be overstimulating, thanks in part to technology, and we have everyday problems to face including meeting deadlines for work or dealing with the stresses of family.
Because of this, people’s fight or flight response—also called the sympathetic nervous system—is activated too often, resulting in anxiety. Overactivation will cause you to be vulnerable when you actually need your fight or flight response for survival.
The Science Behind Anxiety
When you feel threatened, the pituitary gland releases adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This acts as a signal to other glands to release additional hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline, into the bloodstream where the heart beats faster and you exhibit heightened senses. When the threat is gone, the hormones decrease, and your body returns to its regular functioning.
Experiencing this scenario many times through the day in response to stressful situations will take its toll on your body, affecting normal processes, such as digestion and sleep. This is where acupuncture treatments come in.
What Does Acupuncture Do for Anxiety?
Acupuncture helps to reset the body by regulating the nervous system. It will bring the body down to its parasympathetic state, training the body to not react so strongly to every stressful situation. This is why acupuncture for anxiety is an effective stress management method.
Some signs that show that the body is shifting out of anxiety includes:
- Relaxed muscles
- Dissipated headache
- Watery eyes
When using acupuncture to treat anxiety, you will experience other positive side effects since everything is connected. By unblocking one meridian of energy, you will solve more health problems than just your anxiety.
Where is the Pressure Point for Anxiety?
There are several points on the body where pressure or needles can be applied to relief anxiety. The places will vary from person to person based on the symptoms exhibited. Additionally, the acupuncture locations used to provide relief will vary each session based on the shifting of the symptoms.
Traditional Chinese Medicine acupoints for anxiety include:
- Ying Tang/Hall of Seal: Located between the brows and also known as the third eye.
- Ear Shen Men/Spirit Gate: Located on the ear.
- Nei Guan/Inner Pass: Located on the inner forearm, three fingers’ breath from the wrist
- Shen Ting/Spirit Court: Located in the centre of the forehead near the hairline.
- Heart Shen Men/Spirit Gate: Located on the inside of the wrist along the crease in line with the pinky.
How Often Should You Get Acupuncture for Anxiety?
Everyone experiences different symptoms of anxiety, so the number of sessions they need to undergo will depend on their unique situation. However, it is beneficial to schedule sessions closer together at the beginning in order to feel the long-lasting effects of each session.
Acupuncture may be the solution you need to restore your physical and mental health. Come to our acupuncture clinic in Calgary to learn more. Dr. Yan will help you to go into a relaxed state in order to gain the most benefits from each acupuncture session.
Speak with Your Licensed Acupuncturist in Calgary
Dr. Yan will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that answers your needs. She will review your medical history, side effects, and more while providing you with a welcoming and tranquil space.
Dr. Yan has close to 30 years of experience practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine, so she will be able to answer all of your questions about acupuncture treatments.
Contact her today!
