According to Chinese medicine acupuncture is a way to improve the functioning of the body by modifying imbalances or energy blockages inside the organs.
In the acupuncture for stress relief, long and very thin needles are inserted inside the body`s meridian pressure points.
These points are present on different locations in the body and are also connected with certain organs.
Meridians are usually explained as a highway of energy, and acupuncture works by getting rid of the “roadblocks” on this energy highway.
When the meridians are clear without any blockages, the qi (energy) flows freely. Western medicine has also shown that acupuncture releases endorphins, and activates natural pain killers, so it is understandable why it can make us feel good.
Once they are inserted the needles might be twisted or an electrical pulse can also be used. Then the needles are left in the body for approximately 20 minutes, and after that time is over, they must be carefully removed.
According to professional acupuncturists, stress treatment is effective only after a small number of visits so it will not take long before a person feels the improvement.
However, to avoid any complications, or risk of infections it is highly advisable always to seek a skilled and licenced acupuncturist and to pay attention that he or she at all times uses sterile and disposable needles.
The main side effect of this treatment is that some people may experience soreness after acupuncture sessions, or develop bruises and some may feel pain even during the sessions as the needles are being inserted.
But experts agree that if a person suffers from some bleeding condition like Hemophilia than acupuncture is not a good choice and should be avoided.
Please remember that after a session of acupuncture for stress it is normal to feel fatigued and to start feeling better the next morning.
But because it is scientifically backed up method, and research has revealed that it really has a relaxing effect on the body, it might be good option specially if you do need an additional treatment to deal with anxiety, stress or symptoms of panic or generalized anxiety disorder.
So, why wait? Be brave and try it because all you have to lose might be your stress!