April is Stress Awareness Month. We all experience stress – yet we may share it in various ways. There is no one-size approach to wellness. During the past few years, most of us have experienced a higher level of stress due to unforeseen circumstances, COVID-19! Learning healthy ways to cope and getting the proper care and support can help reduce stressful feelings and symptoms. After all, stress can impact many aspects of your body, from your physical, mental, and spritual self. Rest assured, there are tools to help you manage stress effectively. Let’s do a deep dive and learn how Balance Within Acupuncture can help you manage symptoms.
What is Stress?
When you feel threatened, your nervous system releases a flood of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, which rouse the body for emergency action. These physical changes increase your strength and stamina, speed up your reaction time, and enhance your focus, preparing you to fight or flee danger. Otherwise known as the “Fight or Flight” sensation. There is no single definition for stress; the American Institute of Stress states the most common explanation is a “physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension.
Affecting More than Just Your Mind
Long-term stress can prove to be more than just a mental issue. From headaches to stomach disorders to depression – even severe problems like stroke and heart disease can come from stress.
Acupuncture for Stress
Did you know stress is one of the most common issues patients encounter in a traditional acupuncture treatment? From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture relieves Stress by promoting the movement of Qi in the body. When the body is healthy, Qi (pronounced chee) flows smoothly through the meridians that make up a conceptual network of pathways throughout the entire body. Acupuncture treats both the symptoms and the root causes of the patient’s condition.
Therapeutic effects include:
Chronic stress manifests as a wide range of emotional, physical, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms. The most valuable takeaway is knowing how to talk to others about your stress and getting the professional help you need to feel your best.
Helpful Tips:
- Be an advocate for yourself; reach out to a wellness professional if you notice physical and mental changes.
- Create a daily routine you look forward to.
- Move your body, eat a balanced meal, get at least 8 hours of sleep and be consistent.
- Mediate; the power of breath is fantastic for calming the nervous system.
- Enjoy time with pets and loved ones.
- Limit screen time. Give your eyes and mind a break by opening a window and breathing fresh air. Go for a walk if you can.
- Put some fun into your day!
During Stress Awareness Month, take the time to feel your best with holistic wellness services and self-care. At Balance Within Acupuncture, we are here for you during all of life’s moments. Visit us online to learn more, or call us at 818-478-9401.
