Acupuncture and Stress

Stress is a natural defence mechanism in which the body releases a chain reaction of hormones in response to certain situations. This mechanism is known as the fight or flight response. During fight or flight, the body releases hormones such as adrenalin and cortisol, which in the proper situation keep the body energetic, alert, and focused. However, in today’s over stimulated, overworked, and rushed way of life, there is a constant release of these hormones, making it difficult for people to ever feel relaxed.

How can acupuncture help?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), too much stress will affect the Liver System first. The Liver System is in charge of making sure Qi (pronounced chee) flows smoothly throughout the entire body. Qi can be translated as life force or vital energy. It is in every living object and flows all around us as well. Stress will cause this life force to become stuck and stagnant manifesting as physical symptoms such as tightness in the chest, a stuck or lump feeling in the throat, indigestion, diarrhoea, headaches, bouts of anger, insomnia, etc.

When seeing an acupuncturist for stress related symptoms, he or she will choose acupuncture points best suited for your individual situation. Some main acupuncture points for stress lie on the Liver Meridian and are indicated for soothing the Liver and allowing the Qi to flow freely. Inserting needles into these acupuncture points relaxes the body and clams the mind. Some patients feel so relaxed that they even fall asleep during treatment.