Bodyscapes acupuncture and massage

  There are three types of stress we encounter in life:

1. Eustress: a type of stress that is fun and exciting, and keeps us vital.
2. Acute Stress: a very short-term type of stress that can either be positive (eustress) or distressing.
3. Chronic Stress: the type of stress that seems never-ending and inescapable.

The Fight or Flight Response. Stress can trigger a mechanism in the body known as the Fight-or-Flight Response. During this reaction, certain hormones like adrenalin and cortisol are released causing the heart rate to speed up, breath rate to quicken, digestion to slow down, the muscles to stiffen, and the senses to become sharper. These hormones rouse the body for emergency action. This response is appropriate if you are faced with a life and death situation, but to live in a chronic state of fight-or-flight can be detrimental to your health.

 Stress and Health. Long-term exposure to stress can lead to serious health problems. Chronic stress disrupts nearly every system in your body. Some of the effects include:
     High blood pressure
     Increase risk of heart attack and stroke
     Cancer and diabetes
     Chronic fatigue syndrome
     Speed up aging process
     Suppressed immune system
     Digestive problems (obesity, ulcers, and IBS)
     Skin problems and hair loss
     Acute/chronic pain and fibromyalgia
     Frequent headaches
     Anxiety, depression, and insomnia
     Menstrual irregularities, infertility, and PMS

  Four Ways to Deal with Stress and its Symptoms

• Learn how to manage your stress
• Strengthen your relationships and support system
• Learn effective ways to relax
• Invest in your emotional/physical health

Suggestions for reducing stress:
An important part of reducing stress is to find the time in your schedule to enjoy yourself and have fun. The following is a list of suggestions for you. The more time you spend feeling good and enjoying your life, the less you will experience the harmful effects of chronic stress.
                 
             Meditation
                  Yoga
                  Tai chi
                  Get regular massages
                  Enjoy a nap
                  Breathe some fresh air
                  Make positive affirmations
                  Manage your time
                  Revitalize your sex life
                  Go to a comedy club
                  See a music concert
                  Find a walking buddy
                  Plant a vegetable garden
                  Plan regular vacations
                  Sign up for a weekend retreat
                  Read an inspirational book
                  Learn biofeedback
                  Eat regular, nutritious meals
                  Learn guided imagery
                  Establish a spiritual practice
                  Go to church
                  Join a social club                                   
                  Take up a hobby  
                  Call an old friend
                  Become a volunteer                              
                  Attend a lecture                                      
                  Take a cooking class

Treating Stress with
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Using acupuncture as one of your supportive therapies to treat stress-related conditions is an effective way to jump start the healing process. Acupuncture can treat a myriad of symptoms associated with stress, as well as, treat the root problem. Other healing modalities such as Chinese herbs, massage therapy, aromatherapy, progressive relaxation techniques, visualization, and healing music can be incorporated into your treatment to enhance the effects and provide a relaxing, pleasurable experience.