Emotional wellbeing, anxiety,
stress and depression
Anxiety, stress, symptoms of depression and PTSD are common forms of emotional distress. They are reported as becoming increasingly prevalent, and those living with such conditions experience symptoms which can affect daily life and function. Symptoms such as excessive worry, nervousness, fear, panic and feeling overwhelmed are commonly experienced, along with sleep disturbance and insomnia.
According to ancient Chinese medicine teachings, emotions are classified as a particular form of internal disharmony, which can affect the function of the physical body as well as the mind. In the West, the role of emotions has not always been acknowledged as such, but over the past two decades, scientific evidence has increasingly demonstrated that they significantly contribute to various disease processes. These ancient theories had a lot to tell us after all!
Emotions are of course a natural part of human life, and they are not a cause of disease in themselves. This only occurs when equilibrium is disrupted by persistent emotional stress or a single traumatic event which has long-lasting negative effects. Whilst expressing our emotions in an appropriate way can keep us healthy, by contrast prolonged emotional distress can result in physical and mental exhaustion. By keeping our emotional balance well regulated, we can support our health and live life in a more fulfilling way. While we may seek to achieve both emotional and physical health (in fact the two are interconnected), discovering how best to accomplish this is not always easy.
Person centred approach
Traditional Chinese medicine has over 2000 years history in treating all symptoms of emotional disharmony, dating back to the ancient Chinese medical doctrine the Nei Jing.
One of its strengths is its system of pattern differentiation, a holistic framework, to diagnose and formulate treatment strategies. This person-centred approach reflects the unique clinical features of each individual, treating not only the symptoms but the whole person. Overall health and wellbeing may improve as a result.
How we can support you
The management of emotional health, including symptoms of stress and anxiety, is a primary reason for seeking acupuncture, reflexology or Chinese herbal medicine treatments at Eight Branches.
Your practitioner has first hand experience, and a deep awareness of how prolonged emotional distress can affect even the basic functioning of daily life. It was exactly this which brought her to seek support through acupuncture almost twenty years ago. Having seen the benefits for herself, it was this direct experience which resulted in a career change and finding her vocation. She brings the knowledge gained though her own personal experiences when formulating treatment plans for those living with similar symptoms. She has also undertaken further training in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to obtain a deeper understanding some of the mechanisms involved in emotional disorders.
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Acupuncture can support the reduction of anxiety and related symptoms by targeting points that calm the mind and regulate the nervous system. Studies have shown that acupuncture modulate the autonomic nervous system and reduce the body's stress response. Acupuncture and reflexology can also promote relaxation and a sense of well-being, reducing the feelings of stress overall.
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Alternatively you may choose to opt for a package of Lifestyle Consultations. This East Asian wisdom offers guidance in the form of some basic principles, which are comparatively easy to follow. These core ideas have been around for some 3000 years and are still as relevant today. Indeed, scientific studies back up many of its wise observations, which truly have stood the test of time. It teaches us to pay particular attention to 4 key areas, or ‘pillars’ including mind, body, diet and sleep. Each of these ‘pillars’ has the same value and all need to be prioritised together with equal focus.
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At the initial consultation we take a deep dive at all aspects of your life and health, both physical and emotional. Together we explore which of the key areas may be affecting emotional balance, and provide individualised guidance based on these principles. Each of the follow ups will have a particular focus, including mind, body, food and sleep. We delve into the concept of ‘nourishing life’ tradition of Yang Sheng and discover how minor changes can gradually bring about balance. We will examine beneficial ways to help yourself, such as altering any lifestyle choices which may not be serving you well during this time. It will also include providing dietary wisdom using the principles of Chinese nutritional therapy, and self-care practices to help support emotional balance.
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While Traditional Chinese medicine may benefit emotional health, it is important to approach it as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or PTSD should consult with healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action. Acupuncture can be used in conjunction with other treatments such as psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to achieve optimal results.