How to Lower Stress Through Acupuncture

In acupuncture, pain and disease are treated by puncturing the skin with thin needles. This practice is rooted in the belief that illness is caused when blockages obstruct the proper flow of energy throughout the body. The needles help clear these blockages, restoring health and wellness. Many believe that acupuncture can be used to treat a host of conditions, including ulcers, hemorrhoids, diabetes, Bell's palsy, depression and insomnia. This approach has also been used to lower stress.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access for finding an acupuncturist in your area

1. Know the causes of stress-related symptoms. Stress stems from the body's "fight or flight" response to a perceived threat. This response raises the levels of cortisol--known as the body's stress hormone--in the body. It also raises blood pressure and suppresses the body's immune system. With the passage of time, these issues can snowball into depression, anxiety, fatigue and digestion problems.

2. Understand how acupuncture battles stress and stress-related symptoms. Acupuncture works by facilitating the release of pain-killing endorphins. These endorphins help soothe stress. Acupuncture also helps clear out cortisol and other waste chemicals by improving blood circulation. In addition, acupuncture can serve to reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure.

3. Find relief from stress through acupuncture. Use the Acufinder Web site to find an acupuncturist in your area (see Resources below).

4. Expand your knowledge of acupuncture through reading. Purchase "Acupuncture for Everyone: What It Is, Why It Works, and How It Can Help You" by Dr. Ruth Kidson (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• The cost of your acupuncture treatment will vary based on the experience of your practitioner, as well as his or her training. Geographical location also plays a part, with rates in some cities being cheaper than those in others.
• Some states require that acupuncturists be licensed. Check to see if yours is among them by visiting the Acufinder Web site.
• If you experience severe symptoms such as extreme chest pains, do not attempt to treat your condition with acupuncture. Instead, seek the care of a physician.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

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