When a person experiences an intense bout of stress, or repeated stressful events over and over again, their Qi and Blood begins to get “stuck” in the meridians and organs of the body; When Qi and Blood do not flow properly, illness results. This is reflected in a very common pattern known as Liver Qi Stagnation.
The Liver, in TCM, is in charge of many things, but its primary job is to ensure smooth flow – smooth flow of Qi, of Blood, of our emotions, and of all the cyclical aspects of our bodies. When events and circumstances prevent the Liver from moving Qi and Blood smoothly Liver Qi Stagnation results.
So, what exactly does Liver Qi Stagnation look like? Since the Liver controls smooth flow in the body, when its Qi becomes stagnate you will begin to see the natural rhythms and cycles of your body begin to change. Likewise, because stress causes Qi and Blood to get stuck, you will experience sensations of fullness and distention. These are the most common symptoms of Liver Qi Stagnation:
- Irregular periods
- Painful menstruation
- Premenstrual Syndrome
- Breast tenderness related to menstrual cycle
- Mood swings, fluctuating mental state
- Frustration leading to crying and/or anger
- High Blood Pressure
- Migraines
- Feelings of fullness and/or distention in the abdomen, chest, sides of the ribcage
- Frequent heavy sighing (this is your body’s attempt to move the “stuckness”
- Feeling of a lump in the throat (often with a desire to swallow frequently)
What Acupuncture Points Are Used To Treat Stress?
There are several acupuncture points commonly used to help reduce stress. Here are a few of them:
1. Pericardium 6 (P6): Located on the inner forearm, about two finger-widths above the wrist crease. It is believed to help calm the mind, relieve anxiety, and reduce nausea.
2. Heart 7 (H7): Found on the palm side of the wrist, in line with the little finger. This point is often used to calm the spirit, promote relaxation, and alleviate insomnia.
3. Governing Vessel 20 (GV20): Situated at the top of the head, in the center of the line connecting the ears. It is commonly used to clear the mind, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being.
4. Kidney 1 (K1): Located on the sole of the foot, in the depression at the center of the front half of the foot. This point is known to help ground and center the body, promoting a sense of calmness and reducing stress.
5. Liver 3 (LV3): Situated on the top of the foot, in the depression between the big toe and the second toe. It is often used to soothe irritability, reduce stress, and promote emotional balance.
Please note that while these points are commonly used for stress relief, it is always best to consult with a licensed acupuncturist to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific needs.
Acupuncture for stress, can help to clear these symptoms and get you back to baseline, and feeling calm. Book your first visit today!