It’s hard to believe another holiday season is already upon us! With planning, cooking, shopping, and trying to make time for friends and family, this joyful time of year can quickly become overwhelming.
While the holidays are meant for celebration, they can often bring added stress. That’s why it’s important to find ways to reset and recharge—both emotionally and physically.
According to Ann Masten, a psychologist and Regents Professor of child development at the University of Minnesota who studies resilience, “you can’t count on surging all the time—you’re going to be depleted.” She explains that surge capacity refers to the mental and physical resources we draw on to cope with stressful situations.
When these resources run low, we feel it—not just emotionally, but physically too. Chronic stress increases the production of cortisol and adrenaline, two hormones that can negatively affect the body over time.
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Cortisol is linked to worry, fear, and heightened vigilance, often triggering anxiety.
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Adrenaline, the “fight or flight” hormone, prepares the body to respond to threats.
When overproduced, these hormones can impair the body’s natural stress response. Prolonged stress may suppress the immune system, contribute to physical pain, disrupt sleep, and lead to unhealthy eating habits. All of these are signs that the body is out of balance—and if left unaddressed, they can lead to illness.
How Acupuncture Can Help 🤔
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine offer a powerful way to restore balance. These practices support both emotional and physical health by helping to “reboot” the system.
Acupuncture works by promoting the smooth flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”) and blood through the body’s energy channels, known as meridians. While Qi doesn’t have a direct equivalent in Western medicine, it generally refers to life force or vital energy. Many health issues are caused by blockages or imbalances in this system—what you might think of as the body’s energy grid being jammed.
By stimulating Qi and blood flow, acupuncture opens these channels, allowing the body to return to its natural healing rhythm. It’s a gentle, non-invasive way to support your body’s ability to function optimally. When energy starts flowing freely again, emotional and physical discomforts can fade—leaving you feeling more relaxed, rejuvenated, and at ease.
Other Simple Ways to Reduce Stress
In addition to the gift of acupuncture, here are a few more ways to manage holiday stress and support your well-being:
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Try new warm, nourishing recipes. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), eating warm, cooked foods during winter supports digestion and helps regulate the body’s internal temperature. 🍲
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Get at least 15 minutes of fresh air daily. It’s not always easy in colder months, but even a short walk outside can clear your mind and help recharge your emotional and physical batteries. 🌞
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Stay active. Regular, gentle movement—like walking, yoga, or stretching—gets your blood flowing and releases feel-good endorphins. Studies show that consistent physical activity can help lift depression and improve resilience. 🏃♂️
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Keep a gratitude journal. Writing a daily list of things you’re thankful for can shift your perspective and reduce stress. Gratitude brings awareness to what’s going well, helping you feel more grounded and present. 📝
A Gift for the Season
As we move into the holiday season and colder weather, consider giving yourself—or someone you love—the gift of acupuncture. It’s a thoughtful way to calm the mind, soothe the body, and restore balance.
Sometimes, a little support is all it takes to jumpstart your motivation and lift your spirits.
Wishing you a peaceful, healthy, and joyful holiday season! 💜
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