How do I know acupuncture is really working?
Acupuncture is holistic medicine and affects many systems in the body all at once. Here are a few things to be mindful of after receiving acupuncture as evidence that it’s working. You may have come in to have your low back pain treated but acupuncture will affect other body systems as well besides just reducing your pain level.
Here’s a short list of things to keep in mind and notice as you are going through acupuncture treatments.
Your sleep is better. Acupuncture stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system that helps you rest and digest allowing your body to find that state more readily on its own when it’s time for sleep. You may notice that you get to sleep easier. Or stay asleep longer and have a deeper sleep. You may wake up more rested and energized to face the day.
You have more energy. It goes without saying that if you are sleeping better, you will in turn have more energy throughout the day. Beyond that, some patients find the treatments relaxing and sedating at first, but have a burst of energy a few hours after the treatment. Moreover, the boost of energy feels more natural and grounded versus the sugar and caffeine-laden high most people are used to inducing to get through the day.
Your digestion becomes more regular. Again, with the stimulation of the “rest and digest" response of the parasympathetic nervous system, you are likely to have more regular bowel movements and fewer bouts of indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea. As a result, you will be getting more nutrients out of your food and using it more efficiently. In turn, this can boost your energy as well.
You have less pain. Acupuncture stimulates the release of powerful, natural opioids and endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers, to help block pain and reduce stress. Endorphins are also associated with feelings of happiness and pleasure. Who doesn’t need more of that?
You feel less stressed. Acupuncture directly stimulates the release of endorphins, the “rest and digest" response of the parasympathetic nervous system, and biochemicals of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, cortisol, and BDNF in the brain which boosts the mood creating a sense of happiness and relaxation that can last for days after treatment.
You are more aware. Whether it’s heightened sensory experiences or a new awareness of your emotions and feelings in your body, everything seems to be a bit more vivid. Some patients report that their sense of everything around them seems to have improved. The sky seems to be a brighter blue and the flowers smell a little sweeter. While others can have emotional releases either during treatment or after. Both are normal responses to acupuncture but may feel unsettling at first. Treatments can be adjusted, especially for heavy emotional responses, if the sensations are too strong.
Have any questions about the list or things you have experienced after acupuncture treatment? Please reach out! I’d be happy to explain.
