Stress is defined as a physical, chemical, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension and may be a factor in disease causation. Anxiety is defined as an abnormal and overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physiological signs such as sweating, tension, and increased pulse. Another way to look at it is that stress is our response during a situation, and anxiety is our response to a situation that has already passed or has yet to occur.
We all deal with stress, many of us on a daily basis. Anxiety, although less frequent, is also something many of us are familiar with. Fortunately our bodies are equipped to deal with stress. At the onset of a perceived danger, changes begin to occur in hormones, heart rate, breathing, pain sensations, and even mental awareness. These adjustments occur to help the body either fight the threat or run from it. When our bodies are in this state, blood pressure increases, cortisol levels elevate, immune function is suppressed and digestion is slowed. Some people believe they thrive on stress, but the reality is that excessive or long-term stress can lead to serious medical conditions. Such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- IrritabilityInsomnia
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Auto-immune disease
- Headaches
- Pain the the shoulder, back, and neck
- Hypertension
- Stroke
- Heart attacks
From a Chinese Medicine perspective, stress prevents the flow of qi in the body. This results in blockages that in turn cause a variety of symptoms. Acupuncture works to address and remove these blockages, ensuring free flow of qi. Acupuncture is also extremely effective in helping us relax both physically and mentally. When qi is flowing properly, the body is nourished and remains healthy.
A study was done to determine if acupuncture is effective in the treatment of stress and anxiety. Participants were patients that were being transported to the hospital by ambulance. Half of the participants received auricular acupuncture based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. The other half received “sham acupuncture.” Each patient was evaluated upon being picked up by the ambulance, and again upon arrival at the hospital. The group that received TCM acupuncture achieved a 66% reduction in their levels of stress and anxiety. The group that received “sham acupuncture” only achieved a 10% reduction.
At Axis Natural Medicine, we can help reduce the symptoms of stress, as well as treat the causes of that stress. If you need help with stress management, call us for a free consultation. We can customize a treatment plan to make each day a breeze.