Stuck in a loop of Stress and Anxiety: A Chinese Medicine View
It can feel at times as though you're the only one experiencing stress and anxiety. Many of us mask it well. Like the duck analogy, we can appear calm and grounded to the outside world while furiously paddling beneath the surface or carrying something quite different inside.
In my experience of working with many clients, these feelings visit almost everyone at some point. Sometimes they are serious and debilitating, bringing panic attacks and a deep sense of overwhelm. Other times they sit quietly beneath the surface of an otherwise fully functioning day.
The most important thing to know is that you're not alone, and there are many things that can help.
Small things that make a difference
If you can, notice what eases the feelings, even if only slightly. For some people it's being with friends and talking things through. For others it's taking space and time alone. Get out into nature, breathe fresh air, eat as well as you can and prioritise sleep. In Chinese Medicine, stress is closely linked with the Liver, which is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi (energy). When Liver Qi becomes stuck, we feel the symptoms of stress, and the more stressed we feel, the more stuck the Qi becomes. It's a cycle. Acupuncture aims to break that cycle by encouraging Qi to flow freely again. When stress goes on for a while, anxiety can follow, sometimes with heart palpitations or panic attacks. In Chinese Medicine this is associated with the Heart, which houses the Shen - the mind, spirit and consciousness. When the Heart is affected, we may also notice a persistent low mood. Many clients tell me they feel calmer and more grounded after treatment, and find it easier to think clearly and make choices that support them - more able to identify those small things that make a difference that are unique for everyone.
How many treatments?
Everyone responds differently. Some people feel a shift after their very first session, and for others change comes more gradually over a course of treatments. Acupuncture is a complementary treatment and can work well alongside any medication, talk therapy or other support you are receiving. Or as a stand alone treatment.
Take the first step
Some clients come to me specifically for stress and anxiety. Others mention it alongside something else they're coming in for. Either way is absolutely fine. If you are experiencing some stress or anxiety just get in touch. I see clients in Greystones, Blackrock and Dublin 4. All first time appointments start with an initial consultation and treatment when we'll talk through what's going on for you. There's no judgement and no pressure.
“Kate worked with me on anxiety issues for several months. From the first time we met, she made me feel at ease and showed a real interest in my problems. She really wanted to help from the start and it was very obvious that she spent a lot of her own time researching my symptoms in order to find a therapy best suited to me. Every session was a really pleasant and calm experience which I would look forward to every week. Kates location is really clean and a very nice environment to be in. I am now finished working with Kate and am delighted to say that I feel like a new person.”
Stephen