South Florida winters are often sunny and full of great weather. But while everyone is out enjoying their time, you might be feeling stressed out or blue after the holidays. You might even be feeling lonely, especially if you are socially distancing due to COVID-19. However, acupuncture for relaxation might be able to help.
Symptoms of Chronic Stress
We live in a fast-paced society, which can make it difficult to relieve any mental strain or pressure. Stress in short bouts is normal, especially in emergency situations, but chronic stress persists over a longer period of time. Your body releases certain hormones, like cortisol and adrenaline, in tense situations. But when you’re stressed all the time, you are constantly releasing a steady stream of these hormones, which can cause long-term damage.
You might experience some of the following symptoms in response to chronic stress:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Gut issues
- Rapid heartbeat
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Concentration issues
- Exhaustion
- Teeth grinding
- Frequent worrying
Instead of simply masking these signs with medication, acupuncture helps you manage these symptoms and tackle the root of the problem.
How Acupuncture for Relaxation Helps You
The goal of acupuncture is to restore balance within your body, so how exactly does the treatment help you?
Improves Your Energy Flow
During your session, your acupuncturist will evaluate and determine which acupressure points to use. They insert needles underneath your skin to stimulate these points to improve your Qi, or life energy.
Gives You Space to Relax
Perhaps one of the most important aspects of your acupuncture session is that it’s self-care time. You don’t have to take care of any responsibilities or handle stressful situations during your treatment—your focus is simply to relax. Acupuncture for relaxation may seem contradictory since you will have needles in your skin. But many patients find that they feel calm, de-stress, and even lightly fall asleep.
Few Side Effects
Acupuncture is not a medication with numerous side effects. That means it won’t interfere with any prescriptions you’re currently taking or cause adverse reactions. Some patients find that they have a bit of soreness, light bleeding, or minor bruising after their session, but these effects should not last long.
Releases Endorphins
When the needles stimulate your nerves, your body reacts by releasing endorphins. Endorphins are a form of natural pain killers that your brain releases to help you relax and experience a boost in your mood.
Helps You Prioritize Your Wellbeing
Your acupuncturist should recommend a treatment plan that includes how many weekly sessions you will attend. Regular acupuncture sessions can help you change your habit of simply brushing past pain and continuing with your day. Instead, you’re encouraged to prioritize your wellbeing and book time in your schedule to do so.
Start Your Year Off Right
Acupuncture won’t heal your chronic stress right away. After all, you didn’t start experiencing these symptoms overnight. But over time, attending your weekly sessions can make a significant change in your life. Paired with exercise and antioxidant-rich foods, you can relieve your chronic stress.
To book your first session today, click here.