Stress management has gained its foothold in today’s everyday language that we use as frequently as where’s my cellphone and I need a drink. But it wasn’t until 1936 that Hans Selye coined the word “stress”, not because stress didn’t exist before but because it wasn’t until then that research began to link chronic stress with modern day illnesses.

Because of acupuncture’s affect on the nervous system and thus the cascade of stress hormones, acupuncture can reduce cortisol levels (caused by both physical and mental stress) and thus help set up an athlete’s body for optimal functioning.

As an acupuncturist, I’m compelled to tell you that acupuncture’s ability to reduce stress is a great byproduct even if it isn’t the initial reason you are coming in for treatments.