The surprising benefits of acupuncture for your mind
Having needles stuck into your skin may not seem like something that will improve your health and well being, in fact, it may be your personal nightmare, but don’t dismiss it out of hand. Acupuncture can benefit many aspects of your health and really isn’t scary or painful at all.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been practised in China for thousands of years and is now widely available in the UK. It involves very fine needles being inserted into the skin. This stimulates sensory nerves under the skin which then release pain relieving endorphins.
How can acupuncture benefit your mind?
As well as being extremely effective at relieving pain, acupuncture is great for stress relief, and improving your memory and concentration. If you suffer from the symptoms of stress, acupuncture can help. Symptoms such as tiredness, lethargy, insomnia, anxiety and mood swings can all be improved through acupuncture. It is thought that the same endorphins which relieve pain, also help you to feel more relaxed. Regular acupuncture sessions have been successful in treating the symptoms of chronic stress.
For those with particular conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or forms of dementia, acupuncture can offer a more effective alternative to medication. Acupuncture stimulates a neural response in certain areas of the brain, particularly those affected by Parkinson’s disease. Acupuncture can help to prevent the cognitive decline associated with the disease. For sufferers of Parkinson’s disease, a course of acupuncture can help improve tremors, movement and pain levels.
Patients with dementia may also benefit from acupuncture. Studies have shown that it improves symptoms of dizziness, headaches, insomnia and depression and can be more effective than medication, with fewer side effects.
Acupuncture can also help to improve memory and learning capacity, particularly in patients with a cognitive impairment.
Finding an acupuncturist
Acupuncturists may work in the traditional way or they may be physiotherapists or nurses with acupuncture training. Choose whichever one seems more appropriate for you, but make sure that they have a professional qualification. Have a look in our directory to find a qualified acupuncturist that’s right for you.
