Many people have been experiencing anxiety.  While anxiety can have roots from many different sources and circumstances, this article  focuses upon anxiety related to lack of social connectedness.  In Chinese medicine, we consider both the function of the Heart, and the emotional duality associated with the Heart, such as  joy / anxiety and social connection / isolation.

 

Research has proven that social connectedness is one of the most important factors in keeping the functional aspect of the Heart healthy.  For example, cultures that still “close up shop” to eat together on a regular basis are found to have lower rates of heart disease and less problems with cholesterol.  Setting time aside for supporting one another really is beneficial to our hearts, minds and spirit.  The Heart also has a strong connection with the mind, however, in this case the mind is not only thought of as brain function, but more of the relationship between the two. In Chinese medicine this relationship between the Heart and the mind is referred to as Shen.  Anxiety is just one of many physical, emotional and mental hardships that isolation manifests.  The first two sentences of the definition of anxiety sums it up (from https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com) : Anxiety is a multisystem response to a perceived threat or danger. It reflects a combination of biochemical changes in the body, the patient’s personal history and memory, and the social situation.  Quite often, anxiety may also involve a mixture of many experiences such as exhaustion, fear and anger.

 

Acupuncture practitioners take in a complete picture of a person by listening , and also consider a person’s circumstances with regard to their family life, work, support system, social connection – or lack thereof.   Also of great importance is a person’s history of stress.  Acupuncturists consider all the information provided to treat the root of anxiety.  Chinese medicine is a gentle approach that involves several modalities, including the insertion of very fine needles (acupuncture).  Treatment may also include taking a combination of herbs.  Chinese medicine and acupuncture can be an excellent addition to a health care plan as we navigate outside influences beyond our control.  These outside influences can be incredibly stressful and lead to various emotions that can ultimately lead to physical changes in the entire system.

 

Read more about the Heart and the Fire Element : http://daisylear.com/loving-intention/