Acupuncture is best known as a treatment for controlling our aches and pains but few of us know that acupuncture can also be used to treat anxiety and depression.
Anxiety symptoms include:
• Shallow breathing
• Racing heart
• Broken sleep
• Restlessness
• Feeling wired and can't switch off
• Shaky, jumpy
• Fearful
In my clinics I frequently hear patients tell me they feel 'overwhelmed', 'panicky' and 'can't cope' with the day to day stresses and strains of life. We are busy juggling so many things that we are in a chronic state of anxiety, running on adrenaline.
The Western Approach to Anxiety
Your GP may prescribe medication such as anti-depressants or beta blockers. You could be offered talking therapies.
Talking therapies such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) are beneficial but I know most people would rather avoid mediation and their side effects.
How does Acupuncture reduce Anxiety?
Acupuncture is an incredibly powerful treatment that is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety levels from the first treatment.
Here's the science bit!
The body secretes an assortment of hormones into the bloodstream as a reaction to stress. Researchers measured hormone levels secreted by the hypothalamus, the pituitary and the adrenal gland (HPA) and NPY involved in the "fight or flight" response.
They found that "Acupuncture blocks the chronic, stress-induced elevations of the HPA axis hormones and the sympathetic NPY pathway.”
Essentially by inserting painless needles at specific points in the body, acupuncturists can effect actual chemical changes in parts of the brain to reduce anxiety and make long-term changes.
How will I feel afterwards?
Even during your treatment you will start to feel a sense of calm. You will feel more aware of your body and your breathing will deepen. The thoughts that were whirring around in your head will quieten.
I hear these sorts of comments from patients:
"After the treatment I felt calmer than I have in months."
"The stress in my life hasn't actually changed, but I have an inner strength and can cope, things aren't bothering me as much."
"I'm not waking up at 4am anymore worrying about my to do list."
Try Acupuncture
If you or someone you know is struggling at the moment and is finding life a bit too much then please come and have some Acupuncture.
I am always very happy to answer any questions you have so please email me on kate@katewinstanley.com
Finally: Meditation for Anxiety
Meditation is no longer considered whacky - it is recommended by doctors and frequently cited by top business men and women as their failsafe way of being on top of their game. For more information on Meditation click here.
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