Stress-Related Conditions

  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.

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
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
Plan regular vacations
Sign up for a weekend retreat
Read an inspirational book
Learn biofeedback
Smile more

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.

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