Stress is a natural nonspecific response of the body to the various demands we place upon it.  However, stress is not necessarily negative.  There is a distinction between healthy and unhealthy stress.  Healthy stress includes appropriate physical exercise, good eating habits, positive thinking, adequate rest, and a natural response to emergency situations.  These stressors keep us alert and motivated, and support our body's strengthen and vitality.  Unhealthy stress, such as negative emotions and thinking, overexertion, poor eating habits, lack of sleep, and chemical and environmental pollutants and toxins, challenge our health and can trigger physical and mental problems, particularly if they are experienced over a prolonged period of time.

 

There is Hope. Practitioners of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been helping people cope with stress for thousands of years.  The ancient theories of TCM on how stress affects the body organs are similar to those of Western medicine; however, TCM theory and treatment go far beyond treating symptoms and signs. 

 

Along with treating physical and emotional symptoms and signs associated with stress, this ancient medicine addresses the root cause(s) of the problem.  One way that stress affects the body is by causing a depletion or blockage of Qi, especially that of the Kidney's and adrenals.

 

With acupuncture and TCM, the practitioner's job is to support and restore the integrity of the various organs affected and depleted by the stress response, along with evaluating and quality and quantity of Qi.

 

Your acupuncturist may also suggest adjunct therapies to enhance treatment, and speed healing. Proper eating habits, as well as the use of exercise, stretching, movement and meditation practices, support and promote a balanced and healthy body, mind and spirit.

 

Signs of symptoms of an overactive response to stress: