Treating Anxiety and Depression – Weekly Wellness Tip

Tue, Apr 11, 2017

Enjoy our weekly wellness tip from Licensed Acupuncturist, Michael Savalli.

I briefly mentioned last week, that acupuncture can help depression.  It can also help with anxiety.  Many more people in modern society suffer from these conditions, sometimes simultaneously.  However, the conditions have been treated using acupuncture and TCM for many years.

Modern treatment of these conditions focuses around theories on brain chemistry.  Standard treatment revolves around prescribing medications to correct imbalances in the brain.  However, we are faced with the dangerous side-effects of some very powerful medications.  Such treatments are sometimes warranted, but again, there are other options.

Put simply, in Chinese medicine, we say depression is energy stagnation, and anxiety is an overabundance of un-anchored energy.  Using acupuncture, we can correct the flow of energy to bring you back in balance.  (I use the term “energy” for convenience.  The actual mechanism may be much more complicated.  For example, there is scientific evidence that acupuncture can trigger the release of certain neurotransmitters in your body, that makes you feel better and more relaxed.)

Another way TCM can treat the emotions is with herbal formulas.  These are similar but more gentle than pharmaceuticals.  They still carry some risk of side-effects, so should only be prescribed by a trained professional.  However, used appropriately they are still safer than prescription meds.  Formulas that can gently lift, or calm your mood.  For an understanding of this effect, think along the lines of how a cup of coffee can act as a mild stimulant.

I also recommend some simple practices, that over time can have a subtle but noticeable effect on your moods.  If you’re stuck, or slightly depressed; get moving.  Light activity, even just twisting and swinging your arms, (you can do it while you watch TV), can help with depression-like symptoms.  If you tend towards anxiety, try just sitting, and counting your breaths.  A simple seated meditation like this, for 15 minutes a day with deep breathing, has a very calming effect.

These methods might not work for everyone, but it’s important to remember, in treatment, you have options.

Meet Michael Savalli, MSOM, L.Ac

Michael is a board certified NY State Licensed Acupuncturist, who received his Masters Degree in Oriental Medicine from New York College of Health Professions.  While in this program, he also specialized in Chinese Herbal Medicine. If you or anyone you know is interested in staying healthy this season, schedule your appointment and learn how Acupuncture and herbs can boost your immunity. 

631-601-6491

Click to learn more about Michael Savalli, MSOM, L.Ac

Caring For Cancer

Come join us in this beautiful support group and connect with others who have been or are going through treatment. We will be providing a group meditation and mini acupuncture sessions. This event is free and open to the public. Caring for Cancer meets every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7pm.  Please call to reserve a seat as spaces are limited. 

631-601-6491

In good health,

Elizabeth M. Martin, MSOM, L.Ac, LMT and the Staff at Hands on Health and Wellness