People often know of using acupuncture for pain relief. But the mental health benefits of acupuncture are often less well known. Acupuncture can be an effective tool in addressing chronic stress, depression, and anxiety. Acupuncture has the ability to down regulate the central nervous system, in particular the stress hormones such as cortisol. This can help re-balance the homeostasis of the body and brain and bring relief from stress and anxiety and the physical symptoms they often cause.
There are a couple of different ways that this effect is achieved. Acupuncturists look at the body holistically, seeking to understand the patterns that are present in a patient’s lifestyle. When acupuncturists speak of holism, we are referring to the idea that there are a multiplicity of factors that affect health and illness. Using this understanding, Traditional Chinese Medicine theory helps to guide the selection of treatment protocols that will work to re-calibrate the body’s energetic so that the body’s innate healing and physiological processes are functioning correctly.
Holism helps us recognize that when one system of the body is affected by an imbalance or illness another system will also be affected. For example, many patients come in with chronic stress and anxiety. This often manifests in physical symptoms such as digestive upset or poor sleep. As acupuncturists, we are able to see the correlation between these symptoms and address the underlying stress component while also working to enhance the digestive function.
Curious to know how you might be affected by cortisol levels? Check out this short article about signs of high cortisol levels. To have a more in-depth conversation and identify treatment options, contact Justin at 503-289-3370 or go online to schedule a consultation. At Inspire Wellness we are committed to bringing you the mental and physical health benefits of acupuncture.
