Body
Physical Health
I Tried Acupuncture For The First Time – Here’s What It’s Like
August 5th, 2021 at 12:35 pm
Some stress and anxiety is normal, especially during a global pandemic. But for someone with a pre-existing anxiety disorder, the uncertainty of the coronavirus and the future has been more difficult to cope with. I went for counselling, but I also had physical tension, which was my body’s reaction to the stress. My facial muscles were tight from clenching my jaw and grinding my teeth overtime, so when I heard about acupuncture being able to release tension and reduce stress, I was like, “sign me up!”.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine that involves inserting thin needles (very thin!) into specific points in the body. These nerve-rich areas are targeted to help stimulate muscles, tissues and organs. According to traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture brings the body’s flow of energy, known as “qi”, back to balance. When a person’s qi is imbalanced and blocked, it is said to cause illness and poor health.
The Session
I made an appointment at TMF Academy, which is The Mind Faculty’s affordable therapy arm, and went with an open mind. The session started with the acupuncturist, C.M.D.R Joanne Wong, examining my body in terms of Chinese medicine and ensuring that the session will treat the source of my symptoms.
She took my pulse by hand and as I focused on my breathing, I was surprised by how much she was able to tell about me from my diet to my menstrual cycle. She then had a look at my tongue and eyes, and took my blood pressure with a digital monitor. After getting a clearer picture of my physical and mental health, it was time to get poked!
The session targeted four areas: my stomach, lower legs, forehead and the top of my head. I started to get nervous as the first acupoint on my stomach was being sanitized. My pain tolerance has varied, so I couldn’t help but to hold my breath as the needle penetrated my skin. Guess what: it didn’t hurt! I was relieved as three more needles were inserted into my tummy, until it was time to add the mild electrical pulses. To my surprise, that didn’t hurt either – it produced a slight tingling sensation and a heater was added to provide warmth.
I felt very relaxed by the end of it. My mind was at ease for the first time in (what felt like) years! This newfound sense of peace was so strong, it had me purchasing a 10-session package that filled my weekly routine with acupuncture. Not to mention, I had an amazing sleep right after.
Who Should Try It?
As TMF Academy is a mental health clinic, their acupuncturist works closely with the mental health practitioners to support those with:
- Depression and postnatal depression
- Anxiety
- Addiction
- Learning disabilities and ADHD
They also do acupuncture for beauty and wellbeing, which includes improving complexions and sleep.
How Can It Help?
Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture:
- Releases endorphins and promotes serotonin production.
- Promotes feelings of relaxation and pain relief.
- Regulates hormones and the nervous system.
- Stimulates blood flow to the brain.
- Detoxifies and normalizes liver function.
- Improves collagen production and evens out skin tone.
How To Prepare For A Session
If you are undergoing any treatments or are on any medications, please discuss acupuncture with your doctor first. If it isn’t a risk to your health and you’re ready to try it, look for a licensed acupuncture practitioner – you can make an appointment with TMF Academy here. Schedule your appointment on a day that isn’t stressful, so you can rest after the session. Before the session: make sure to eat an appropriate amount, avoid caffeine and wear loose-fitting clothing.
Our bodies and minds may seem separate, but our mental health and physical health go hand in hand. Poor physical health can cause mental health problems, and poor mental health can develop into physical symptoms. Please take care of your overall wellbeing, especially during these stressful times!
@wildgingermyTW: Needles • Did you know that acupuncture can help alleviate depression & reduce anxiety? We tested it out at The Mind Faculty! ##mentalhealth
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