How to relieve anxiety
Anxiety is a term that encompasses several feelings, including worry, fear and unease. We all feel anxiety to varying degrees at times in our lives; before a job interview, when a loved one is sick, or during transitional moments, such as graduations or moving home. In these situations, feelings of anxiety are completely normal.
However, if you find it difficult to control your feelings of anxiety, you may be feeling restless, or have trouble concentrating or sleeping, it can be as a result of not having an obvious source and you may struggle to remember the last time you really felt relaxed.
Anxiety is also a symptom for a number of conditions, including panic disorders, phobias, PTSD and social anxiety disorders and GAD. Physical side effects of anxiety may also include heart palpitations and dizziness.
Although it is possible in some cases to medicate for anxiety, there are many holistic therapies that may provide relief. These include meditation, mindfulness, aromatherapy, frequent exercise and massage.
Can acupuncture and acupressure treat depression?
A recent study found that acupuncture may be as effective as antidepressants in managing the symptoms of depression, as well as helping to reduce the side effects of medication.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical technique that aims to ease the journey of energy around the body by releasing energetic blockages. It uses fine needles to access specific energy points across the body. Physically, it also targets the nervous and muscular systems, and can alleviate tight knots by bringing a rush of blood and oxygen to the area.
Acupressure is a non-invasive therapy that uses pressure instead of needles on the same energetic meridians. Many types of massage target these pressure points, including a Deep Tissue Massage.
If you are feeling depressed, massage may be able to alleviate some of your symptoms, including trouble sleeping, tension or listlessness in the body and a feeling of isolation. Gentle touch from another human can be incredibly healing.
Massage for anxiety
The benefits of massage for anxiety are very similar to those of depression. Massage may be a good way to get back in touch with your body, reduce your blood pressure, release tension and realign your body. You may leave your session feeling physically lighter and more balanced, which can help you to face the day!
If you are feeling anxious about having a massage, think about trying Reflexology on your feet. For this treatment you remain fully clothed, while a practitioner manipulates points on your feet that relate energetically to the rest of your body. Reflexology has been proven to be a highly effective therapy over thousands of years and in many clinical trials, so you don’t have to worry that you’re missing out on anything.
Once your massage has finished, make sure that you take time to rest and relax. You could hydrate with plenty of water, take a warm bath, and focus on getting a great night’s sleep!
If you are interested in other complementary therapies that may also help your anxiety, you can explore meditation, reiki, salt lamps and yoga.
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