Clinically reviewed by: Gudrun Wu Snyder, Doctor of Acupuncture, DAc, LAc, Dipl.Ac (NCCAOM), MSAc

The best use of imagination is creativity. The worst use of imagination is anxiety.

-Deepak Chopra

Anxiety is so common yet so personal. Most people grapple with bouts of anxiety throughout life — for some, it’s a constant battle. From a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) perspective, acupuncture helps ease the symptoms associated with anxiety in several ways. According to TCM, anxiety is an imbalance between the yin and yang energies within the body, as well as improper qi, or vital energy flow. Through acupuncture, it is believed that yin, yang and qi can be brought back into harmony therefore reducing anxiety symptoms.

From a Western biomedical perspective, acupuncture has been shown to work on several biological systems. Research suggests that acupuncture may influence the regulation of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which can have an impact on mood and anxiety levels. Acupuncture may stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain and stress fighters. Endorphins are often referred to as "feel-good" chemicals due to their ability to elevate mood and provide pain relief. Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help reduce the body's stress response. By modulating the production of stress hormones, it may promote a state of relaxation and alleviate feelings of anxiety.

Finally, acupuncture may impact the parasympathetic nervous system and help the body shift toward a state of relaxation and balance.

Which acupuncture points are most helpful to treat anxiousness and why?

There are several acupuncture points that help ease the symptoms and sensations associated with anxiety. Shen Men [which loosely translates to spirit gate] has two acupuncture points. One is on the ear and the other one is near the wrist’s crease, which belongs to the heart meridian. In TCM, Shen Men is understood to be a gate to access our mind and emotions. When these locations are needled or acupressure is used, it can help open the gate to relieve energy blockages. This is something people can treat at home if they do not have an acupuncturist near them. Ear Seeding Kits are a DIY solution that are easy to use and include a guide to find Shen Men on the ear.

How often is acupuncture needed in order to deal with chronic anxiety?

Each person is different, so how they respond to acupuncture will be different. Acupuncture is a very individualized treatment, so each treatment plan depends on the individual. In general, if you have been suffering from anxiety for years, you may be seeing an acupuncturist once or twice a week initially for a few weeks. The goal is to taper off and then do periodic “checkups.”

How does acupuncture compare to other commonly prescribed ways to deal with anxiety?

It’s important to use all the tools in your toolbox. We are fortunate to live in a society where there are many tools, things like: meditation, medications, therapy, and many more. So why not try something that is relatively low cost, with little to no side effects? We at Moon Rabbit are here for you with any questions you might have.

Book a session now.

Please consult with your physician if you are experiencing severe anxiety. This article does not contain information meant to diagnose or treat any disease or disorders. Moon Rabbit is here for you, and we always want to work hand in hand with your entire care team.