Can you use acupuncture for anxiety treatment? Anxiety can be disruptive, affecting everything from sleep quality to daily focus and emotional well-being. While conventional treatments like therapy and medication remain common, many people are incorporating acupuncture into their wellness routines as a natural, evidence-backed method to ease stress and restore balance. Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture has been used for centuries to regulate the body’s energy flow, support mental health, and promote deep relaxation.
If you’re seeking a holistic approach to managing anxiety, acupuncture offers a gentle yet effective solution. Let’s explore how it works and why it might be the right option for you.
Can Acupuncture Help with Anxiety and Depression?
Acupuncture is based on the principle that the body’s vital energy, or qi, moves through specific pathways known as meridians. When this energy becomes imbalanced or blocked, it can manifest as physical or emotional distress, including anxiety and depression. Studies show that by inserting fine, sterile needles at precise acupuncture points, practitioners can trigger the release of endorphins and serotonin, the body’s natural mood boosters. This helps to mitigate the effects of stress on the body.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) published a study examining the effects of acupuncture on individuals with major depressive disorder. Findings showed a significant correlation between the number of acupuncture treatments received and a measurable reduction in depression severity, underscoring acupuncture’s potential as an effective complementary therapy.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Stress Relief
Acupuncture treatment can provide lasting benefits for your overall mental wellness in a few key ways:
- Reduces stress and anxiety symptoms by calming the nervous system.
- Improves sleep quality, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.
- Promotes relaxation and emotional balance by increasing serotonin and dopamine levels.
- Eases tension and headaches, which are common physical symptoms of stress.Supports overall well-being by improving energy flow and reducing inflammation.
Can You Pair Acupuncture with Traditional Treatments?
Absolutely! Acupuncture is not only safe to use alongside conventional treatments but is also recommended! This treatment can boost its effectiveness through a complementary, comprehensive approach, especially when combined with therapy, medication, or other holistic wellness practices.
At Bespoke Wellness, our clients often seek acupuncture to complement treatment for:
- Headaches
- Back and Joint Pain
- Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
- Depression & Anxiety
- Insomnia
- High Blood Pressure
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most people experience little to no discomfort during an acupuncture session. The needles used are incredibly thin (about the width of a human hair) and are designed to stimulate, not puncture deeply. Sensations vary from a mild tingling to a warming or dull pressure. If any discomfort arises, your acupuncturist can adjust the placement for a relaxing experience.
How Long Until You See Results From Acupuncture?
While the best results come with consistent treatments, some people report feeling relief as soon as the first session. The timing of the results is heavily based on your preexisting conditions and the ailments you are seeking relief from. People experiencing chronic pain may find it takes more sessions before they experience relief than those with acute pain.
How Much Does Acupuncture Cost?
Acupuncture pricing depends on factors such as provider expertise, session length, and geographic location. At Bespoke Wellness in Alameda, we value transparent, competitive pricing. View our latest acupuncture pricing here.
Find Calm with Acupuncture in Alameda, CA
Looking for a natural way to ease anxiety? Schedule an acupuncture session at Bespoke Wellness and take the first step toward a calmer mind and body.
