BODY HEALTH
Treating Anxiety, Depression & Stress
Using Traditional
Chinese Medicine
By Kelly Linstead, RTCMP, RAc, RHN, PTS, HYI, Reflexologist
Anxiety is a mental disorder that affects
literally millions of people. Under stress, blood
and energy is diverted to muscles and the
cardiovascular system for fight or flight. Heart
rate increases, energy is released from fat to fuel
the muscles. Systems such as the digestive and
reproductive are shut off because they are not
necessary under stress.
Illness arises over time as stressors become
more constant, emotions are suppressed or
there’s a traumatic event. Blood pressure remains elevated; there is a
sense of nervousness, and anxiety.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient healing system of
medicine that has evolved over 5000 years, used by millions of people,
making TCM one of the oldest medical systems today. It includes
the use of acupuncture, acupressure, Tuina massage, herbs and
movement. In TCM, all cells and organs are linked thru one energetic
system connected by meridian or channels.
TCM views all emotional conditions as it relates to the meridians. For
example, sadness or grief, blocks Lung and Heart energy. Repressed
emotion or anger blocks the Liver energy. Fear depletes the Kidney
energy. Qi (energy) and blood flow eventually stagnates and can lead
to stiffness in the muscles, headaches, sleep disorders, depression,
moodiness, frustration, irritability, problems with memory, lack of
concentration, loss of appetite, and sexual dysfunction, digestive
problems, chronic fatigue, lower back pain, and more. Over time can
develop to more serious health problems such as diabetes, asthma,
cancer or thyroid deficiency.
Acupuncture seeks to restore any energy imbalances, stimulating the
body's own healing process to restore its natural balance.
Acupuncture is profoundly relaxing, restoring balance to the central
nervous system. Most people feel connected, peaceful and deeply
relaxed after treatment. This feeling becomes a more continuous
experience with repetitive treatment.
Acupuncture releases the body’s own natural analgesics, endorphins
bringing oxygen to the tissues enhancing circulation of blood and
lymphatic fluids. Treatments can also help release emotional, mental
and biological toxins from the body. It decreases the stress hormone
cortisol, lowers blood pressure, and creates a sense of well-being.
Deep breathing, meditation, exercise and yoga as part of the healing
process often help one feel more control over their anxiety, calm
and have insight. It’s a time to learn about you in order
for change.
16 I
Living Well Naturally with Nature’s Emporium
I
fall issue 2014
Stabilize blood sugars and insulin levels by
substituting refined carbohydrates, sugar and
caffeine with low glycemic foods, non-toxic
Chinese herbal medicine and water at regular
times to improve mood and mental health.
The University of Arizona studied the treatment
of depression using traditional, individually
tailored acupuncture treatments in a double-blind,
randomized, control trial consisting of twelve
sessions over an eight-week period. At the end of
the study, 64% of the participants were judged to be
in full remission of their symptoms.
An article in CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics
proved that acupuncture is comparable to
cognitive-behavioral therapy, which psychologists
commonly use to treat anxiety.
Beijing Medical University compared the use
of traditional acupuncture to the use of the
antidepressant drug amitriptyline in the treatment
of depression and anxiety. Results showed that
acupuncture is as effective as amitriptyline in the
treatment of depression and even more effective
for anxiety symptoms.
A study from China proved acupuncture reduced
anxiety and depression in patients with chronic
physical illness, where the psychological state
of the patient was exacerbating their physical
condition, contributing to deteriorating health.
After just one month of treatment, anxiety had
decreased to normal levels in 70% of the patients
and depression in 90%.
TCM is much more comprehensive and much
less invasive than using SSRI (selective serotonin
reuptake inhibitors) medications. While some
medications have been known to ease anxiety,
they may also produce undesirable side effects and
toxins while suppressing the symptoms.
Kelly Linstead bri