Acupuncture and massage provide safe, effective alternatives to controversial depression/anxiety medication . According to Chinese medical practitioners, Qi, or energy, is conducted between the surface of the body and internal organs along pathways called meridians. It is Qi that regulates spiritual, emotional, mental and physical balance. When the flow of Qi is disrupted through poor health habits or other circumstances, disease can result. Acupuncture and massage keep the flow of this energy unblocked, and because Chinese medical practitioners treat patients as individuals, they consequently treat the true source of the depression instead of just prescribing pills.
It is important to take care of your mental wellbeing, whether you suffer from a clinically diagnosed disorder or are simply experiencing stress. Stress is at the root of many if not most of our modern ailments, yet as a culture we find it difficult to separate ourselves from the stress in our lives. Stress may be manifested physically as the result of too much to do, not enough sleep, a poor diet or the effects of illness. But stress often exhibits itself mentally as a result of worry, grief or trauma. Most stress accumulates subtly through daily strain, causing increases in blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, metabolism and blood flow to your muscles. The constant reactions your body produces can threaten mental health by contributing to the “out of control” feelings associated with stress.
Oriental medicine eases accumulated stress through exercise, meditation and massage. Acupressure (touch or massage on acupuncture points) is especially effective in relieving stress. The ability to regularly relax and focus on the self cannot be underestimated in terms of how it affects mental health.
Acupuncture is a safe and effective tool to relieve stress. Acupuncture treatments can help restore balance and thus protect health by identifying each individual’s unique energy profile to identify weak spots where to offer support in order to restore balance. As the heavy feelings of stress are relieved, people may feel more confidence in their ability to cope with unpleasant aspects of their lives and make necessary changes.
