At some points in our lives we have all dealt with stress. This is a natural response to situations that feel out of our control and that normally pass, but if a person is under constant stress it can take an emotional toll and lead to anxiety. This can cause both mental and physical health problems that can be devastating to everyday life.
In Chinese medicine these negative emotions are considered energy blockers, since they see the body as a network of flowing energy through meridian systems. These strong emotions like stress and anxiety block the natural energy flow causing our body to react to the blockage. An example of this reaction is that many people who feel stressed will complain of upper back, shoulder and neck pain. This is because stress causes tension in these areas and energy cannot flow causing stiffness and even headaches. These people also generally suffer from insomnia and emotional disturbances due to imbalances in there meridian systems, also known in the western world as neurotransmitter imbalances. With the help of acupuncture these blockages can be relieved restoring the natural flow of energy through the meridian systems that feed each organ of the body.
Speaking from a scientific point of view, acupuncture helps lower the levels of stress hormones by helping release natural pain killers called endorphins and also naturally balancing neurotransmitter levels. In Chinese Medicine this is a balanced yin and yang; the same thing as homeostasis in western medicine. Another benefit of Acupuncture is that it also helps the circulation of blood helping oxygenate the body cycling out chemical waste, making us feel better. Acupuncture is very calming and helps relax our muscles and our minds.
Learn more about how Eric Recine, Acupuncturist serving Naperville, IL and the surrounding area, can help you ease your anxiety through the very real benefits of acupuncture.