Got Stress? Try Acupuncture

Between long Canadian winters and snowstorms, trying to keep up your New Year’s resolutions, and the usual pressures of home and work, it’s no wonder that so many of us are chronically stressed. Now, a new study suggests giving acupuncture a try

The recent animal study found that acupuncture, a form of traditional Chinese medicine, helped to reduce neuropeptide Y, a protein in the body linked to stress. Many times, acupuncture patients report a better general sense of well-being after treatment, but science has never proven why. Further tests are being done, but these preliminary results look promising.

Acupuncture is also traditionally used to treat many other conditions, from chronic pain to painful menstrual cramps.

Long-term stress can lead to conditions such as high blood pressure and even heart disease over time. Here are some more stress-busting techniques to try:

• Physical exercises, including stretching and deep breathing
• Support your immune system
• Make lifestyle and perception changes
• Give yourself time to relax, with a massage or long soak in the tub