Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health issues worldwide.

Just as anxiety tends to disrupt routines, getting into a routine can lower anxiety. Routines allow us to be more efficient, to spend less time thinking or worrying about what needs to be done and more time simply getting things done. This then opens up time to relax and better enjoy our lives.

Did you know that your body is so finely tuned into a circadian rhythm that there are particular times of the day when it is better to eat, sleep and be productive?  Chinese medicine offers a guide to healthy living by aligning with your body’s natural rhythms and cycles.   There are recognised two-hour periods throughout the day when qi (energy) is at its peak in each organ system and can support clearer thinking, better digestion, and deeper sleep.   Creating a routine that follows this system can make life feel more predictable and provide a sense of order and control. This can reduce stress and anxiety and can help you become more productive as you go with the flow of your body clock.   

Chinese medicine works holistically, recognising the mind-body connection and treating the whole person – body, mind, emotions and spirit. The intention in treatment is to correct any physical imbalances that might allow your anxiety to continue. Acupuncture is increasingly recognised as a supportive treatment for anxiety and depression, with a growing body of research exploring its benefits. It may help ease anxiety by supporting the brain and nervous system to regulate stress, promoting relaxation and helping the body shift out of a heightened state of anxiety and worry.

Many people experience a deep sense of relaxation during or after treatment. Over time, this can help to ease feelings of anxiety, and with regular treatments a more sustained sense of calm may develop. Often there are other underlying factors contributing to anxiety, and acupuncture can support these as part of a holistic approach.

Acupuncture provides many benefits that are important to those living with anxiety:

  • Supporting balance between the parasympathetic (rest and digest) and sympathetic (fight or flight) branches of the nervous system
  • Helping to regulate stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenalin
  • Reducing tension and promoting deep relaxation of the body
  • Calming the mind and body, and supporting emotional wellbeing

Chinese medicine recognises that different people require different treatments, even when suffering from the same condition. As it is a holistic form of medicine, treatment often includes acupuncture, herbs, diet and lifestyle counselling. Due to the often complex interplay of both mental and physical symptoms, it can be helpful to combine acupuncture with the right kind of emotional or psychological support.

The experience of having acupuncture can be pleasant, relaxing and energising, with each treatment tailored to your individual needs. How often you receive treatment will depend on your unique circumstances, and ongoing care can provide valuable support as you navigate life’s natural ups and downs. If this resonates with you, book an appointment and take another step along your path to wellbeing — because mental health really does matter.

Your feedback and questions are always welcome so please leave a comment below.

For further information on Chinese Medicine contact Tania Grasseschi (Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs, Qigong and Wholefood counselling). Tania is an AHPRA registered practitioner of Chinese Medicine located in Katoomba, NSW and has spent 6 years lecturing at the Endeavour College of Natural Health Sydney campus.

The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only, and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. Remember that you are responsible for your own health and safety at all times.