Understanding Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety is a normal response to stress. When faced with a stressful situation, our brain releases hormones to increase alertness. However, when this feeling becomes constant, it can lead to abnormal levels of worry and irrational dread of everyday situations, affecting our lives, digestion, sleep, and relationships.
Anxiety can be future-oriented and long-acting, unlike fear, which is present-oriented and short-lived. It can lead to conditions such as panic disorder, PTSD, OCD, and social phobias. Different types of anxiety can include generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic attacks.
How Acupuncture Can Alleviate Anxiety
In Chinese medicine, anxiety is linked to the Heart and Kidney organs. The Kidney actively regulates the Heart, fostering the spirit and promoting happiness. If the Kidney energy is weak, it can't keep the Heart in check, leading to issues like insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
Specific acupuncture points are used to balance these energies, often alongside Chinese herbal medicine for long-term benefits. The effects of acupuncture on anxiety are profound, providing a natural way to restore balance.
Research and Evidence Supporting Acupuncture for Mental Illness
Acupuncture affects the Hypothalamus gland, releasing neurochemicals like endorphins.
These neurochemicals control our stress response, pain sensitivity, heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.
A 2017 review of over 400 patients showed significant benefits of acupuncture compared to conventional treatments.
A 2018 review of 13 studies found anxiety reduction in acupuncture groups versus control groups, with better outcomes than pharmaceutical medication.
Key Benefits of Acupuncture for Anxiety
A natural and holistic approach to treating mental illness, and other are so many benefits such as:
Minimal side effects
Long-lasting relief with consistent treatment
Enhanced overall mental well-being
Eliminate the risks of pharmaceutical addictions
Boosts the immune system
With no real downside to trying acupuncture, you have everything to gain.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session
Initial Consultation: This takes about 30 minutes. You will be asked detailed questions about past medical history, including digestion, sensitivity to heat and cold, sleep, headaches, eyes, ears, menstrual history if you are a woman, skin, immunity, and emotions. This will be followed by a palpation of your lower legs, arms, legs, and wrist pulses and an examination of your tongue to determine the diagnostic pattern of your dysfunction.
Treatment: A 10- 15-minute consultation is followed by a 45-minute physical treatment on a therapeutic table. After the consultation, you will lie comfortably on your back, remaining fully clothed while your body is wrapped to keep warm. During the treatment, only your arms, lower legs, and feet will be uncovered, as the majority of acupuncture points are found on these limbs. BS.
During treatment, 4-6 very fine acupuncture needles will be inserted just below the skin for 30 minutes while your pulse will be checked regularly to monitor the body’s response to the stimulation.
Experience: Acupuncture has a relaxing effect on the nervous system, which is often very enjoyable. It is not uncommon for people to fall asleep. Patients can enjoy their regular acupuncture sessions as a peaceful break from daily stress and activity. Occasionally, a slight pricking sensation might occur when needles are inserted. If you ever feel uncomfortable, please inform me immediately, and the needle will be removed.
Complementary Practices for Anxiety Management
Suggest additional practices that can complement acupuncture, such as:
Mindfulness and meditation techniques
Physical exercises like yoga
Dietary recommendations
Breathing exercises and relaxation techniques
Avoid the intake of stimulants such as coffee, drugs and chillies.
Follow a strict bedtime routine even if you have trouble falling asleep to retrain your internal clock gradually.
Why Choose Acupuncture On Wheels?
Olivier Lejus is a nationally registered acupuncturist and herbal medicine practitioner with over twenty-three years of clinical experience. After the consultation, you will lie down on your back while fully clothed, and your body will be wrapped to stay warm. Only your arms, lower legs, and feet will be exposed during the treatment, as most acupuncture points are located on the limbs. He has pursued postgraduate studies in Japanese acupuncture in both Australia and Japan. Olivier Lejus has also been a university lecturer, writer, and seminar conductor on Oriental medicine for over two decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture To Treat Anxiety
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Yes, acupuncture can effectively reduce anxiety by balancing the body's energy and promoting relaxation. Research shows that acupuncture helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety by stimulating the body's natural calming responses.
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The frequency of treatments varies depending on individual needs. Patients usually begin with one or two sessions per week, then gradually decrease the frequency as their symptoms improve. Your acupuncturist will recommend a personalised treatment plan.
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Common acupuncture points for anxiety include:
Yintang (Extra-1): Between the eyebrows, known as the "third eye."
Shenmen (HT7): On the wrist, helps calm the mind.
Neiguan (PC6): On the forearm, used to relieve anxiety and stress.
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Yes, acupuncture is a safe and natural treatment for anxiety. It involves minimal risks when performed by a licensed and qualified acupuncturist using sterile, disposable needles.
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Some patients experience relief after the first session, while others may need a few sessions to notice significant improvements. The duration and frequency of treatments will be tailored to your specific needs and response to acupuncture.
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Yes, acupuncture can be effectively combined with other techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and proper diet to enhance overall anxiety management and well-being.
Book Your Consultation
Don't let anxiety control your life. Book a consultation with Olivier from Acupuncture on Wheels today and begin your journey towards effective anxiety relief. Learn how professional acupuncture can help you manage anxiety and enhance your mental well-being. Click below to book your appointment and start feeling calmer and more balanced.