The past three years have been challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting millions of lives in various ways. In search of peace and relief from persistent stress and discomfort, many are turning to acupuncture, an ancient practice with a history that spans thousands of years.
The Pandemic's Impact on Mental Health
"The pandemic has impacted everyone in one way or another; it has exacerbated the pre-existing mental health crisis in the United States," states Dr. Caren Campbell, a dermatologist based in San Francisco. According to Dr. Campbell, any modality that can effectively reduce stress is a welcome addition to the toolbox for combating the mental health fallout from the pandemic.
Acupuncture as a Stress-Reduction Technique
Dr. Campbell strongly advocates acupuncture, praising it as an essential tool for stress and pain management. Gudrun Snyder, DAc, founder of Moon Rabbit Acupuncture in Chicago, references studies demonstrating acupuncture's efficacy in moderating "cytokine storms" — an inflammatory response to COVID-19 resulting in tissue and organ damage.
Scientific Backing
Recent studies from prestigious institutions like Harvard and Oxford Universities reveal that acupuncture can suppress inflammation, enhance immunity, and regulate nervous system functions. "The body shifts into a state of relaxation during acupuncture treatment," explains Tsao-Lin Moy, a certified acupuncture therapist and licensed Chinese herbal medicine practitioner. This relaxation is essential for the body's inherent healing abilities.
The Mechanism Behind Acupuncture's Effects
Jenna Gill, a licensed acupuncture therapist, elaborates on how acupuncture helps the body shift to the parasympathetic nervous system mode, which facilitates reduced heart and breathing rates, lower blood pressure, and improved digestion. This state contrasts significantly with the heightened stress levels many have been facing during the pandemic. Gill attributes the increased demand for acupuncture services to its safety, affordability, and effectiveness in treating stress-related symptoms like insomnia and anxiety.
A Holistic Approach to Healing
Gill adds that Western medicine primarily focuses on symptom masking through medications. In contrast, acupuncture aims to discover and treat the root causes of discomfort and illness. "Our bodies are designed to heal themselves, but stress disrupts this natural flow of energy," says Gill. She advocates combining Eastern and Western approaches for a more holistic healthcare strategy.
Additional Strategies for Managing Stress
While acupuncture offers a promising route to stress management, other avenues should be considered. According to Dr. Campbell, exercise, journaling, and connecting with a support system are also valuable.
See also: Everything You Need and Want to Know About General Acupuncture.
The Power of Positivity
Tsao-Lin Moy highlights the role of mindset in overall health, stating that positive individuals tend to be healthier. Higher levels of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin are found in optimistic individuals, contributing to enhanced well-being.
A Balanced Approach
The age-old practice of acupuncture has regained attention in these trying times as a powerful stress-reducing tool. Medical professionals like Gudrun Snyder advocate for a balanced approach, integrating Eastern and Western medical practices.
With the myriad challenges of the pandemic, such integrative approaches may provide the best path forward for overall well-being.
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