SAD?: How Acupuncture can help treat Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can cast a shadow over the dark, cold winter months, affecting our mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. While there are various self-care interventions available, acupuncture has significant benefits in managing these unwanted symptoms.
Understanding SAD:
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs during specific seasons, typically those with less sunlight.
Common symptoms include:
Feeling down, depressed, changes in appetite & weight, difficulty sleeping, low energy and agitation.
When we have reduced sunlight exposure, it can disrupt our circadian rhythm, which is our body’s internal clock that regulates our sleep-wake cycle. As a result, symptoms of SAD may manifest.
Sunlight plays a role in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate our mood. Reduced sunlight can result in lower serotonin levels, which may contribute to symptoms of depression and SAD.
How Acupuncture Works:
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture take a holistic approach, focusing on the interconnectedness of the mind, body and nature. It emphasizes the importance of prevention and treating the root cause rather than just the symptoms.
In TCM, the body is seen as a complex system where balance and harmony are essential for good health.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles in the body in specific points along the body’s meridians to promote the flow of blood and qi. The goal is to restore balance, reduce pain, and improve overall well being by stimulating these points. The points used are specific to the patient’s pattern of disharmony.
Acupuncture for SAD:
Acupuncture has a profound physiological effect on the body that promotes the release of endorphins, which are natural pain killers and mood boosters. In result, one may be relieved of symptoms of depression such as low mood, fatigue, psychosomatic pain, and anxiety.
Common acupuncture points used to treat SAD include:
HRT7: used for insomnia, mania-depression, sadness, anxiety, heart palpitations
DU20: lifts energy, nourishes brain and memory, clears the head and calms the mind
ST36: regulates digestion, helps with nausea, improves appetite and mood
SP6: regulates digestion, regulates menstrual cycle affected by stress, reduces pain in the body, helps with overall balance and circulation
PC6: used for sleep disorders, mood disorders, nausea, digestive support, and chest tightness
Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbal Formulas:
Chinese herbs have been used for centuries to promote health and well-being. Formulas are designed to target specific organs or systems in the body, helping to restore balance and promote optimal function. Physiologically, they have an impact on cell health and contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Herbal formulas used for SAD may include:
Xiao Yao San: This formula is used to treat symptoms such as, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, indigestion caused by stress, depression, and menstrual disorders.
Tian Wan Bu Xin Tang: This formula is used for stress and sleep disorders, it promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality.
Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang: This formula is good for calming the mind, subduing panic, and reducing symptoms such as insomnia, irritability, restlessness.
*It is essential to consult with a licensed practitioner before consuming these formulas.
Nutrition
Vitamin D3 is super important, especially during the winter months. It helps our bodies absorb calcium which is essential for strong bones. The best way our body produces vitamin D is through sunlight, which is why it is crucial to supplement. Vitamin D helps regulate serotonin levels in the brain so is a good way to take care of our mental health without direct sunlight.
Omega-3 is a great choice to supplement as well due to the impact on brain health and function. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, such as salmon, as well as walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds.
Vitamin B6 plays a role in the production of serotonin and dopamine. This essential vitamin can help with the stress response as well as support healthy sleep hygiene. The best ways to obtain B6 through food is by eating bananas, chickpeas, salmon and chicken.
Magnesium balances the heart and overall cardiovascular health. Further, it has an effect on regulating blood sugar levels. Important foods containing magnesium include spinach, black beans, almonds, and whole grains.
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While acupuncture may not be a one size fits all solution for Seasonal Affective Disorder, it offers an alternative approach that can complement more mainstream treatments. By addressing the root cause of our disharmonies and imbalances within, we have the ability to see ‘the whole picture’ and build tools in maintaining optimal mental and physical health. SAD affects millions of people yearly and has a huge impact on overall well-being. It is NOT something to overlook and there is always a way to support yourself and others through dark, vulnerable times. If you’re considering acupuncture for your SAD treatment plan, our Tribalance Wellness team is here to help you.
