Exploring Acupuncture for Stress: Seven Things to Know

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August is National Wellness Month, and what better way to celebrate it than with some stress relieving practices? In a fast-paced, always on-the-go world, life can throw a curveball at any time. Whether it be personal or from work, stress can make you sick, mentally, spiritually and physically. Did you know that acupuncture for stress relief is rising in popularity? Our team of acupuncturists often works with people just like you looking to reap the benefits. They sat down to answer some questions about how it works. 

Does acupuncture help with stress?

Let’s start with a quick history on acupuncture. According to traditional Chinese medicine, the body’s flow of energy causes sickness and health. When this energy is blocked, we can experience various ailments, including stress-causing conditions. Acupuncture needles are strategically placed to redistribute the flow of energy, freeing any blockages.

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Is acupuncture for stress relief a common practice?

Yes! While there are different ways to de-stress, many are now turning to acupuncture for a more natural approach. For many, acupuncture has had a variety of benefits. These range from improving mood, muscle pain management and providing energy boosts. Let’s face it, 2020 was a stressful time. Causing many to experience health issues from stress as a result. These included weight gain, insomnia, increased blood pressure, muscle pain and more. With life’s uncertainty, we saw many patients turning to acupuncture for stress and anxiety management. 

How does acupuncture for stress work?

Everyone is different, but overall acupuncture can spark a relaxing response for many. How? First is the environment. A typical session is free from distraction, with dimmed lights and calming music. Some sessions incorporate aromatherapy. Many patients bring a comforting pillow or blanket and often fall asleep. Outside of the actual setting, acupuncture itself has stress reducing components. Let’s break this down. 

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First of all, acupuncture needles are not the typical needle you see when you go to the doctor. These needles do not draw fluids from the body. They are small, thin needles. As we mentioned, the needles are strategically placed at varying points on the body. An acupuncturist will target areas that will trigger reactions, releasing natural chemicals, endorphins and serotonin.

Can acupressure also help relieve stress?

Yes! Acupressure involves applied pressure during treatment. In short, it signals to the body that all is well and safe and can relax. There are many known spots to target on the body. These include the knees, feet, hands, in between fingers, on the back and shoulders to name a few. Each point has its own impact. By applying pressure, those natural feel-good chemicals that make you happy are released.

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Want to know more about acupuncture points for stress relief?

Going back to traditional Chinese medicine, stress is believed to flow and settle into the upper body. This includes the shoulders, head and chest. Acupressure is believed to redistribute this Qi or flow of energy. Let’s break down a few spots. 

  • Feeling angry? Target the foot between the first two toes. In addition, it's also known to relieve menstrual and digestive issues as well as headaches caused by stress. 

  • Above your ankle on the leg is a spot that helps with digestion, gynecological and urinary issues and fatigue. Since it targets the reproductive system, many urge those who are pregnant to avoid activating this pressure point. 

  • For anxiety, target the heart with a pressure point in the wrist or mid-chest. These can help with breathing and blood flow. 

Can acupuncture help with stress relief?

Many turn to acupuncture as a drug-free alternative for stress relief and anxiety. As we touched on, traditional acupuncture is about the flow of energy and preventative practices. Western acupuncture focuses more on science, triggering the release of chemicals produced by the body. Whichever approach you follow, they can both be beneficial in relieving numerous conditions. Be sure to consult your medical doctor and acupuncturist to tailor treatment to your specific concerns. 

Are you sure acupuncture is safe?

Yes! As we mentioned, everyone reacts differently. Some do experience slight bruising at insertion sites on their first visit. Although this is rare as most barely feel the needles. We recommend one session per week for those new to acupuncture until their body becomes used to treatment. However, if you have any questions, talk to your acupuncturist during the consultation before beginning. Chances are, you are not the first to ask!

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Stress can leave you scattered, distracted and constantly worried. Keep calm and carry on with acupuncture. Certainly, we know you probably still have more questions. We would love to connect to discuss your specific stresses and concerns. Call our team today at (954) 408-8224 or follow us on Instagram or Facebook. Visit our website to learn more about the AcuMantras team and our South Florida practice. We are conveniently located in Plantation, serving all of the tri-county area. We’re here to help you de-stress!

Before you go, check out these resources. 

Read more about the science behind stress and acupuncture with this study

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