Adrenal Support and Acupuncture – so key to managing stress!
The adrenal glands are important endocrine glands that produce several different hormones. The adrenals are located directly above the kidneys and they are vital to life and health. The hormones produced by the adrenals are particularly important during times of stress. Adrenaline and naturally occurring steroids such as aldosterone and cortisol are made by the adrenals. These hormones help the body control blood sugar, burn fat, react to stressors and regulate the blood pressure. This makes the adrenals extremely important.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has different terms to describe Western medicine concepts. TCM treats the adrenal glands as part of the kidney system and the kidney energetic pathway. The TCM Kidney system is a body region that includes not only the kidneys but the adrenals, the lower back, inner aspects of the legs and ankles, and the center line of the abdomen and chest. Even the ears are a part of the kidney system. The Kidney system is also classified in 5 element thinking as corresponding to the element of water. The kidney area is seen as a key role player that determines growth and development and the quality of life in TCM. This is because the TCM Kidney system is a core system in the production of internal Qi (pronounced “chee”), which is considered the body’s life force.
The body is a complicated machine that has a very efficient self-regulating system. When the body is depleted of quality food or sleep, then it will not be able to function and carry out all the important functions. This is why many people experience eating binges or extreme fatigue accompanied by excessive sleep when they are under severe stress.
Everyday stress can drain the body of energy, nutritional reserves and Qi over time. When this occurs, the body may experience a breakdown, a drop in immunity or great fatigue. If this continues, adrenal fatigue may develop. Adrenal fatigue is a condition where the adrenal glands become weak and then produce insufficient amounts of the hormones needed for everyday life. Symptoms of adrenal fatigue include low libido, food cravings, general malaise, emotional problems, weight gain, low immunity, difficulty concentrating and thyroid issues.
TCM offers several natural therapies for adrenal support. Acupuncture treatments and moxibustion can greatly help the adrenals. Regular acupuncture treatments can strengthen the kidneys. Over time, the adrenals/kidneys will regain some of their Qi, thus helping the body to fuel and heal itself. Acupuncture is so effective because it helps reduce stress and it turns on the relaxation part of the nervous system. When the relaxation side of the nervous system is turned on, the heart rate will return to normal, digestion will improve and sleep will become deeper and more restful.
Moxibustion is another tool in the TCM toolbox that can help heal the adrenal glands.
Moxibustion is the burning of a dried herb, specifically mugwort. The mugwort is placed on specific acupuncture points that are known to tonify or improve the Qi associated with the kidneys/adrenal glands. Both moxibustion and acupuncture can be performed frequently to help bring the body back into balance.
Simply placing a hot pouch or warm gel pack on your lower back can be very comforting and supportive for the TCM Kidney system especially if you have lower back stiffness and pain.
Incorporating healthy eating habits, regular exercise and restful sleep can also keep the adrenal glands performing well. But when we are stressed, many of the things we know are good for us, tend to get moved to the back burner. This is where getting regular acupuncture treatments can be very beneficial. So if excessive stress is a factor in your life, consider adding acupuncture treatments that can help you relax mentally and keep you healthy physically.
