Stress & tension

Stress is your body’s natural reaction to any changes that require an appropriate response. You can experience stress from changes in your body and environment, or as a result of your thoughts. Stress is perfectly normal and helps you stay alert and avoid danger. However, too much stress can lead to a variety of health problems, including muscle tension, migraines, upset stomach, sexual dysfunction, and anxiety.

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Too much stress can also lead to compulsive behaviors such as tobacco use, drinking too much alcohol, or using illicit drugs. Unfortunately, many of these behaviors make anxiety worse and trigger further symptoms, causing a vicious cycle.

 

How does acupuncture work to relieve stress and anxiety?

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When you’re anxious, stress triggers a fight or flight response in your body. As a result, it’s often difficult to naturally relax. When you’re always alert or stressed out, you’re also more likely to experience a host of uncomfortable health problems.

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Acupuncture works to relieve stress and anxiety naturally. By inserting very thin needles at various pressure points throughout your body, acupuncture can promote the flow of your natural energy, or chi. Chi fosters a sense of wellness and calm. It also encourages circulation and decreases muscle tension and inflammation, two common side-effects of stress and anxiety.