Well, it's official: the holidays are over, the cold weather has decided to stay for a while, and the winter doldrums have begun to set in. From immune system support to relief from joint pain and seasonal depression, this time of year our clinic generally has an influx of patients seeking relief from these common winter ailments.
Acupuncture is a remedy that is beneficial throughout the year, but you might find that it can be a beacon of well-being if you choose to begin treatment during the winter months! Why? As the temperatures drop, our bodies tend to slow down considerably.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the winter months are a good time to rest and let the body rejuvenate. During this season of repose, acupuncture can help stimulate circulation, boost immunity, and ease aches and pains!
Below you'll find way to improve your winter wellness routine with acupuncture--and beyond!
Immune System Support
As you know, when winter is at its peak, our immune system tends to weaken. This leaves us more vulnerable to coughs, colds, and flu. Acupuncture has been proven to enhance the immune system’s responsiveness, which makes it an excellent proactive measure against seasonal illnesses. Beginning acupuncture treatment in the winter is a fortification of sorts for your immune defenses...helping your body face the cold and flu season with increased resilience.
Acupuncture may increase white blood cell counts...specifically T-cell counts (which are an important component of the immune system), while also decreasing inflammation throughout the body.
Depending on the patient and the illness, regular acupuncture can help prevent sickness from taking hold, especially when done 12 to 24 hours after symptoms first appear.
Combat Winter Blues
With shorter days and longer nights, winter can sometimes cast a shadow on our mood. By targeting specific points related to emotional well-being, acupuncture has the power to alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
SAD is a form of depression that commonly occurs during the winter months. It is believed to result from reduced exposure to sunlight, disrupting the body’s natural circadian rhythms and contributing to feelings of sadness and fatigue.
Common symptoms of SAD include:
Depression
Apathy
Fatigue
Change in appetite
Change in sleeping patterns
Lack of mental focus
Acupuncture has shown promise as an effective treatment for SAD by stimulating the release of endorphins and dopamine. Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture may not be able to prevent SAD, however, they can be used as tools to significantly decrease the severity of symptoms.
Ease Winter Aches and Pains
Just ask anyone tasked with shoveling the driveway: cold weather exacerbates joint pain and muscle stiffness. Experience relief from winter (and winter-induced activities!) with acupuncture. The strategic placement of needles during an acupuncture session not only releases tension but also reduces inflammation and improves mobility, offering a comforting remedy for bodies worn out by the winter chill.
Warm Yourself from Within!
For effective acupuncture treatments, consistency is key. Regular sessions can strengthen the body’s natural healing response, especially during winter when the immune system may be vulnerable.
We are committed to helping you enjoy a happier, healthier winter season.
Contact Everybody Healing Center today to create an individualized winter wellness plan so you can live with renewed energy once again!