When January rolls around, do you find yourself feeling sluggish, tired, and generally “blah”? Is it hard for you to keep up your normal energy? You’re not alone. You may be experiencing seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that typically occurs during the winter months when there is less sunlight. People with SAD may experience symptoms like sadness, fatigue, changes in appetite, and difficulty concentrating. Luckily, acupuncture may offer some relief from SAD and get you feeling sunny again. Let’s explain how:
1. **Balancing Energy Flow:** Acupuncture works by balancing the flow of energy, or Qi (pronounced “chee”), throughout the body. When Qi is blocked or unbalanced, it can lead to physical and emotional symptoms. By inserting needles into specific points along energy pathways called meridians, acupuncturists aim to restore the balance of Qi.
2. **Triggering the Release of Neurotransmitters:** Acupuncture may also stimulate the release of certain chemicals in the brain, such as endorphins and serotonin. Endorphins are your body’s natural painkillers and mood lifters, while serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in mood regulation. By increasing the levels of these chemicals, acupuncture can help alleviate feelings of sadness and improve overall well-being.
3. **Regulating Circadian Rhythms:** Your body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, regulates various physiological processes, including sleep-wake cycles and mood. Exposure to natural light helps synchronize your circadian rhythm, but during the winter months when there’s less daylight, this rhythm can get disrupted, contributing to SAD symptoms. Acupuncture may help regulate circadian rhythms by influencing the release of hormones like melatonin, which is involved in sleep patterns and mood regulation.
4. **Reducing Stress and Anxiety:** Stress and anxiety can exacerbate symptoms of SAD. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce stress by activating the body’s relaxation response, which helps lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol. By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, acupuncture can alleviate some of the psychological distress associated with SAD.
5. **Improving Blood Flow:** Acupuncture can also improve blood circulation throughout the body. This increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to tissues while removing toxins and waste products. By enhancing circulation, acupuncture may help alleviate physical symptoms of SAD, such as fatigue and muscle tension.
6. **Enhancing Sleep Quality:** Many people with SAD experience disruptions in their sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping. Acupuncture may help improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing nighttime awakenings. By addressing sleep disturbances, acupuncture can contribute to overall mood improvement in individuals with SAD.
7. **Providing a Sense of Well-being:** Beyond its physiological effects, acupuncture can also provide a sense of well-being and relaxation. The process of receiving acupuncture treatment often involves lying down in a peaceful environment, which can be comforting for individuals struggling with SAD. Additionally, the therapeutic relationship between the acupuncturist and the patient can offer emotional support and validation, further enhancing the treatment’s effectiveness.
If you’ve been struggling to get going this year, maybe Dr. Pailin can help. Let her explain how acupuncture can help you find your energy again.