Managing Stress with Acupuncture

Acupuncture Associates

By Holly N. Boland

Everyone experiences stress at some point in their lives. During stressful times, many people turn to friends, counselors, even their churches to alleviate their symptoms. Some turn to yoga, exercise, or meditation. For others, the solution is acupuncture.

Acupuncture is one treatment within the scope of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Though relatively new in the West, acupuncture has been used for thousands of years in Asia. Originally, sharpened stones were used to stimulate specific points on the body. However, today's acupuncturists use hair-thin stainless steel disposable needles.

The underlying principle of TCM is the presence of Qi ("chi"), the body's vital energy. When a person is ill, in pain, or has some disharmony in the body, Qi, which flows through channels called meridians, is either depleted or stagnated. Acupuncture, along with the supportive modalities of moxibustion, cupping, and herbs, may be used to regulate, harmonize, and tonify the Qi.

So, how does acupuncture ease stress? Though not everyone experiences the same physical manifestations of stress, the most common symptoms include headaches, neck and shoulder pain, insomnia, fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability, and digestive problems. The acupuncturist interviews the patient, asking about the nature of his or her stress as well as questions related to all aspects of the body, in order to achieve a "snapshot" of the patient's overall well-being. Then he or she checks the patient's pulse on both wrists, feeling not just for the rate, but also for the quality of the pulse. For example, a patient dealing with stress may have what acupuncturists call a "wiry" pulse, an indication of stagnant Qi. Next, the acupuncturist looks at the tongue, which is considered a window into the internal organs.

In a case of stress, the acupuncturist often looks to the liver, the organ that ensures the free flow of Qi and is often implicated in emotional trauma. The use of carefully chosen acupuncture points within the meridians can harmonize the Qi, smooth out the liver energy, and help to reduce stress-related symptoms. One of the attributes of acupuncture is the effectiveness of the treatment. By using just a few needles, acupuncturists can treat several symptoms at once, often leaving the patient feeling relaxed and at ease. As the Qi becomes harmonized, the symptoms of stress may steadily improve.

In addition to acupuncture, practitioners of TCM may use herbal therapies that can be tailored to treat each individual patient, often with a low risk of side effects. Herbal formulas typically complement acupuncture and provide a stabilizing link between visits. Based on the same organ theory as acupuncture, herbs are frequently prescribed to alleviate the ongoing symptoms of stress.

In addition to providing acupuncture and herbal therapies, acupuncturists may also offer lifestyle advice, such as recommending dietary changes or exercise regimens. After just a few acupuncture visits, patients with stress often feel more energized, less tense, and better equipped to deal with the challenges in their lives.