Solidifying Relationships with Acupuncture

By Dr. Sarah Alemi

Who knew that needles and relationships would ever be discussed together. Yet, acupuncture has been helping to bolster relationships for thousands of years by helping each person optimize their own physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Something to think about as we celebrate Valentine’s Day this month. While some of us might roll our eyes at the saying "it is important . . . .relationships with others." Fortunately, as just mentioned, acupuncture can help with that in many ways. One way is through emotional regulation. The insertion of thin acupuncture needles at certain points stimulate the areas of the body responsible for the production of vital emotion-managing hormones, such as endorphins. Assistance in the releasing of mood-boosting endorphins results in positive feelings and helping with emotional regulation.

Relationships tend to fare better between those who have an overall positive outlook on life and make their mental and emotional health a priority. For example, acupuncture can not only help with feeling more positive, but it can help with mental-emotional disorders such as depression. Our mental health is also important when it comes to the strength of our relationships with others. As we might be aware, Northern Virginia inhabitants often find themselves dealing with stress. Chronic or uncontrolled stress can be disastrous for various types of partnerships.

Luckily, acupuncture has been proven effective in helping to regulate stress. Not only can acupuncture help negate the effects of stress on our bodies, such as poor sleep, impaired digestion, and irritability, but it can also make our body more resilient to stress to begin with. Said differently, we don’t get as stressed as often.

Again, certain points allow the body to regulate hormones as well as release and regulate other important chemicals and neurotransmitters. This leaves us with a calm mind and feeling more at ease.

This ability, in addition to aiding in proper blood flow and circulation, has a final physical effect on the bodyfurther bolstering relationships. With increased circulation and an elimination of feelings of stress, this allows libido passion and feelings of intimacy to rise. Even in non-romantic relationships, acupuncture helps increase our overall energy, allowing us to engage with others - and in a more qualitative way. If you’re looking to strengthen your relationships this year, think about starting acupuncture treatment. By optimizing our physical, mental, and emotional health, we can create vibrant relationships with others.