Mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many people are struggling with their mental health. Some are turning to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for help. CAM includes a wide range of therapies, such as acupuncture, meditation, and yoga. There is some evidence that CAM can be helpful for stress, fatigue, and anxiety. However, it's important to remember that CAM should be used in addition to, not instead of, traditional medical care.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice that involves insertion of thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. The main goal of acupuncture is to promote balance within the body and encourage healing. It is believed that this balance can be achieved by stimulating certain points on the body, which in turn can help improve health. Acupuncture is often used as a complementary treatment to other forms of medicine, and it has been found to be effective for a variety of conditions. A growing body of research suggests that acupuncture can be an effective tool for reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation.
How does it work?
The goal of acupuncture is to restore balance and harmony within the body. It is believed that when the body is in balance, it is better able to heal itself.
Acupuncture works by stimulating certain points on the body known as acupuncture points or acupoints. These points are located along energy pathways known as meridians. It is believed that when the acupoints are stimulated, they can help to unblock any stagnant energy and encourage the flow of Qi (life force energy) throughout the body.
Acupuncture is usually done with thin needles that are inserted into the skin at specific points on the body. The needles are usually left in place for about 20-30 minutes before being removed.
What does the research say?
A recent study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that acupuncture may be an effective way to reduce stress. The study, which was conducted by a team of researchers at the University of Arizona, looked at the effects of acupuncture on a group of college students who self-reported high levels of stress.
The students who received acupuncture in Sydney reported significantly lower levels of stress than those who did not receive acupuncture. The researchers believe that acupuncture may work by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are hormones that have mood-boosting and pain-relieving effects.
While more research is needed to confirm the findings of this study, the results suggest that acupuncture could be a helpful treatment for reducing stress. If you're considering trying acupuncture, be sure to consult with a licensed practitioner to ensure that it's safe for you.
How to get started with acupuncture: finding a TCM practitioner in Sydney, what to expect during a session, etc.
Conclusion
Acupuncture is an age-old Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into strategic points on the body. It is said to help with a variety of issues, including stress. While there is not a lot of scientific evidence to support this claim, many people swear by it. If you are looking for a natural way to reduce stress, acupuncture may be worth a try. You contact us on 0477 021 713.
