Stress

Does acupuncture relieve stress?

water color woman in front of blue clouds

Yes, acupuncture is helpful for all sorts of stress because the body does not distinguish between physical and psychological threats, or whether they are real or imagined. Everyone experiences stress differently through mind, body and behaviour. Stress is anything that poses a challenge or threat to our wellbeing where the body reacts as if you are facing a life-or-death situation. Chronic stress means your stress response is on most of the time and your mind cannot switch it off.

How does acupuncture relieve stress?

Modern research has shown that needling certain points can activate complex chemical responses within the body. Acupuncture stimulates the release of neurotransmitters such as beta-endorphin, met-encephalin, serotonin, adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) hormone and Substance P. These chemicals are vital in reducing and offsetting the buildup of cortisol, as well as resetting the neuro-chemical balance in the brain. These hormones are the "feel good" chemicals the body naturally produces when in the parasympathetic state of rest and digest.

Stress Relief Benefits of Acupuncture

  • Acupuncture helps recalibrate, or normalize the stress hormone levels. This helps patients to sleep better and feel they are better able to cope with daily activity.
  • Acupuncture makes most people feel very calm and relaxed after a treatment. During a treatment, it is not uncommon for a patient to feel as if they are releasing negative energy from their body.
  • Acupuncture regulates the body's life force, also called vital force, body energy or Qi.
  • Acupuncture creates a relaxation response in the body with decreased heart rate, lowered BP, immune system modulation, increased energy and wound tissue regeneration.
  • Acupuncture produces a calming or tranquilizing state of being that is very beneficial and of particular interest to people in states of stress.
  • Acupuncture can relieve feelings of anxiety and depression, which may be serious handicaps for people trying to cope with difficult domestic, social and work related problems.
  • Acupuncture can give a person a feeling of well-being and self-confidence.

Learn More About Stress

Schedule Appointments by telephone only: (403) 542-7621

1130 12 Street SW, Calgary, AB T3C 1A7