Stress is simply a reaction to a stimulus that disturbs our physical or mental equilibrium. In other words, it is an omnipresent part of our life.

A stressful event can trigger the “fight-or-flight” response, causing hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol to surge through the body. According to recent studies, these symptoms of stress can contribute to illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, immune disease and more.

How does acupuncture work for releasing stress? As an acupuncturist, we insert fine needles into certain identified acupuncture points on “meridian” which run throughout the body and correspond to certain organs. Meridians can be thought of as a highway of “qi” energy. Acupuncture helps to work by getting rid of the roadblock of this energy flow. Specifically, stress is related to Liver and Heart Qi which may be imbalanced with stagnation or inflamed condition.

Recent data indicates that mental illness in general, and stress and anxiety in particular, have increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. A national survey by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) found that 36% of Americans say that coronavirus is having a serious impact on their mental health. Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture is an effective treatment for anxiety and stress disorders. And research has also shed light on how acupuncture might affect the body and reduce anxiety on a physiological level. First of all by improving heart rate variability, which is associated with lowering of stress and anxiety. Additionally it stimulates the release of endorphins which play a role in the body’s stress response. Finally acupuncture can affect the nervous system and balance sympathetic and parasympathetic activities to help lessen the body’s fight or flight stress response.

Common signs of stress (by The American Institute of Stress):

• Frequent headache, jaw pain, grinding teeth
• Tremors, trembling of lips and hands
• Neck pain, back pain and muscles spasms
• Frequent blushing, sweating, cold sweaty hands
• Rashes, itching, hives, herpes and sudden allergic attack
• Heartburn, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea
• Chest pain, palpitation, rapid pulse
• Frequent urination
• Diminished sexual desire or performance
• Excess anxiety, worrying, guilt, anger and depression
• Insomnia, frequent nightmares and difficulty in concentrating
• Forgetfulness, disorganization
• Reduced work efficiency