Last Updated on April 4, 2024
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The body responds to stress by releasing chemicals into the blood, which increase your heart rate, your blood pressure, and your muscle tension. These chemical changes are beneficial when aiding an accident victim, preparing to speak in public, or fleeing from an attacker. However, chronically high stress levels can become pathological, leading to headaches, high blood pressure, digestive disorders and sleeping problems.
Most of us live under some form of constant stress, leaving us susceptible to not only the physical ailments mentioned above, but also to psychological problems. These include, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, poor concentration, poor memory and low self-esteem. In fact, this is becoming such an epidemic that some studies indicate 4 out of every 5 visits to the doctor are for stress-related complaints. We are happy to provide a natural alternative or complementary treatment to pharmaceutical medications.
There is no easy fix to dealing with stress and we all cope in different ways-alcohol, cigarettes, sugar, prescriptive drugs and unhealthy food. There is no magic “stress-reducing pill”, though anti-depressants are often referred to in just this way. At best, these pills can offer short-term relief, while at worst they can lead to habituation and dependence.
Acupuncture has numerous physiological benefits including decreasing the heart rate, lowering blood pressure, reducing stress and increasing energy. All of these help to off set the negative effects of stress. Furthermore, acupuncture can relieve feelings of anxiety and depression, making it that much easier to deal with stressful situations. It is an effective substitute for anti-depressants and often times is used to assist people wanting to end their reliance on such drugs.
When you are feeling balanced, relaxed and centered, you are more prepared to look at the world around you in a positive light. Thus, even in the midst of the most stressful times you can make clear and healthy choices that will enable you to deal with the most unpleasant moments in life.