Anxiety is a natural and universal emotion for human beings. It manifests itself on a continuum where some people experience it only in certain circumstances within a limited timeframe like driving a car, being on a new date, going through a job interview, etc. In these situations, feeling anxious is a normal and healthy reaction. However, when someone’s mind is always preoccupied with something and thus feeling anxious for a prolonged time; it can lead to a series of symptoms: restlessness, high blood pressure, fatigue and exhaustion, insomnia, digestive disturbances, low libido, tremors, etc.
Our brain imagines scenarios and these scenarios become threats which, although imaginary, still have an impact on our physical and mental health. When anxiety drags on, our cortisol level increases thus decreasing our ability to digest, rest and regenerate. Without proper help, extreme anxiety can also lead to compensatory behaviors, such as alcohol and drug abuse; one might avoid challenges, social activities, and/or difficult situations which might be important for our personal or professional development.
We all know that taking a break, disconnecting from time to time, is necessary and beneficial to our mental health. Unfortunately, a day off at home cannot always provide the desired effects. Booking an acupuncture session is a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Acupuncture is known to calm the nervous system and promote the production of feel-good hormones: serotonin and dopamine. When a needle is inserted, it stimulates sensory receptors and starts a chain reaction: the receptors stimulate the nerve, which transmits the impulse to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal complex which regulates hormone production. Acupuncture causes the release of neurotransmitters and endorphins, the body's natural pain relievers, as well as substances that relax the body and regulate serotonin. This complex system of interactions between the brain, hormones and glands forms a very potent powerhouse, which is responsible for regulating many physiological processes.
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety such as tightness in the chest, panic attacks, shaking hands, diarrhea and insomnia, etc. It may be time to seek help. A qualified acupuncturist can help you find inner peace, lower your pain level, improve your sleep and help you digest better. Let go of the heavy burden on your shoulders, clear the dark clouds over your head. Try acupuncture today!
Amorim D, Amado José, Brito I, Fiuza SóM, Amorim N, Costeira C, Machado J, Acupuncture and electroacupuncture for anxiety disorders: A systematic review of the clinical research, Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (2018), doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2018.01.008.