As a normal part of life, stress enables us to get things done. If left unmanaged, stress can lead to emotional, psychological, and even physical problems. Stress causes a disruption in the flow of vital energy, or Qi, through the body. These energetic imbalances can throw off the immune system or cause symptoms of pain, sleep disturbances, abnormal digestion, headaches, menstrual irregularities, aggravation of already troublesome health conditions and, over time, more serious illnesses can develop.
Stressful situations that last over a long period of time can create an ongoing low-level stress that puts continual pressure on the nervous system, increasing activity, and can cause the overproduction of hormones. The extra stress hormones over an extended period of time may wear out the body’s reserves, lead to fatigue, depression, a weakened immune system, and a host of serious physical and psychological ailments. Some signs of stress include:
– anxiety or panic attacks
– feelings of constant pressure, hassled and hurried
– irritability and moodiness
– physical symptoms such as stomach problems, headaches, or even chest pain
– allergic reactions, such as eczema or asthma
– problems sleeping
– overindulgence in food, alcohol, smoking, or drugs
– sadness or depression
Stress is often the cause of illness and the deterioration of health. Finding a release valve for your stress can help you stay healthy. According to Oriental medicine, stress, frustration, and unresolved anger can play an important part in throwing the immune system off and allowing pathogens to affect the body. Through acupuncture, these energy blockages can be addressed. Acupuncture points can help energy flow smoothly, and alleviate not only the symptoms of stress and anxiety, but the stress and anxiety itself.
Why does acupuncture help the symptoms of stress? Correctly placed needles help the body re-regulate itself from the effects of stress, depression and anxiety.
Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of stress. Acupuncture improves circulation of blood throughout the body, which oxygenates the tissues and cycles out cortisol and other waste chemicals. The calming nature of acupuncture also decreases heart rate, lowers blood pressure and relaxes the muscles.
Eight Indispensable remedies for the holidays:
1. Arnica montana – the first remedy to take for auto accidents, trauma, sprains, strains, back pain strain, eye strain, or after surgery or dental work
2. Nux vom – the first remedy to think of for indigestion and over indulgence, especially if you find you are angry or short tempered or have constipation as well.
3. Magnesium phos – use for muscle spasms, stress, pain relief, and headaches
4. Rescue Remedy – for any kind of physical or emotional stress
5. Ginger tea or capsules – great for indigestion, gas, diarrhea, stomach flu or over indulgence.
6. Ignatia – for grief or saddness or emotional loss.
7. Acupuncture – acupuncture treatments for stress, muscle spasms, or digestive problems. It works just wonderfully!
8. Meditation, Exercise and Relaxation
Where to Get Homeopathic Remedies: Any health food store or homeopathic pharmacy
How to Take Them: The homeopathic remedies generally have directions on them. If you are not sure, ask Dr. Martin.
Make sure you don’t eat or drink for about 20 minutes before or after you take them and don’t touch them. Tap them into the cap and then under the tongue for maximum effectiveness.
Precautions: If you are on any prescription medications, never stop taking them without first consulting your Medical Doctor.
First ask your doctor if you can take homeopathic remedies before you try these on your own.
If you or someone you know is experiencing stress, contact me for more information about how acupuncture, homeopathy, and Oriental medicine can help you regain peace of mind, regulate your immune system and stay healthy over the holiday season and throughout 2014.
