Get All Four Happy Hormones with Acupuncture
Written by Nina Jatuparisuthiseen, L.Ac., LMT, C.SMA and Nikki Alcordo, DTCM
There is a common effect in the acupuncture world that goes by the name of “Acu- High.” This endearing and silly term comes from the profound feelings of happiness and relaxation associated with receiving an acupuncture treatment, it is no surprise that patients are happy to return back onto the table! If you’ve had the pleasure of experiencing an “Acu-High,” you might have left wondering exactly how this works. It all comes down to a mechanism that you may hear often, but not completely understand what it is — hormones. In this article we explain how acupuncture may contribute to feelings of happiness and euphoria through tapping into four of the body’s natural hormones; endorphins, oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine.
First up, endorphins. Endorphins are also known as the “feel-good” hormone or “natural painkiller”. Interestingly enough, endorphin levels rise when your body encounters pain and discomfort. Originating from the pituitary gland, the body releases these neuropeptides in moments of distress to activate the body's natural opiate receptors. This produces the analgesic effects of acupuncture (all without having to rely on pharmaceutical opiates!). During an acupuncture treatment, the practitioner inserts thin filiform needles into the tissue, creating micro traumas to the patient's body. This sends a signal to the brain to begin releasing endorphins, thus triggering the analgesic, opiate-like effects of acupuncture. The result — a total relaxation response during and after the treatment similar to exercise and laughter.
The next hormone responsible for an “Acu-High” is oxytocin, which you may already know as the “love hormone.” Oxytocin levels increase when we make physical contact with another human or experience social bonding. This chemical of care and compassion can be highly effective in stress reduction. During your session, an acupuncturist will palpate your body to diagnose and in some cases, he or she may use Chinese massage (Tuina) along with acupuncture. Being touched with attention to healing sets a positive state in one's body.
On a subtle level, you may not realize that the interactions we make through treatments such as acupuncture, massage, and other health-care modalities creates a space for patient-practitioner trust. When you find the right match in a practitioner, one who you can trust to provide care with your best interest in mind, you allow yourself to surrender to your body’s ability to relax and heal. In our modern day healthcare system, we often forget to slow down and allow for a patient-practitioner bond to flourish. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we treat people as a whole. Building the relationship between practitioner and patient is essential. At Nina Acupuncture, we take the time to know each individual person, sit with their goals and expectations.
The next hormone responsible for an “acu-high” is serotonin, which is a mood stabilizer that also assists with memory. Serotonin is released during and after an acupuncture treatment. Most of the serotonin in your body is produced in your gut, not your brain. Serotonin production is more sensitive to changes in diet than any other neurotransmitter, so eating well to feel well is the key. Many people do not realize this, but acupuncture is only one modality offered in a TCM treatment. During your visit, your practitioner will go through an in depth examination of your lifestyle and diet habits and offer you nutritional guidance that promotes a healthier gut flora.
Additionally, a counterpart of a TCM prescription that boosts serotonin naturally lies in the practice of daily meditation and spending time outdoors. In our clinic, the doorways lay open to receive gentle streams of sunlight from a high glass wall. Each treatment room has a clear glass window along with lively plants around our peaceful space. Guided meditation is offered to our patients who are interested to learn more about it and practice it while they are resting on our treatment table. The serenity of your environment of your acupuncture experience adds to this serotonin boost.
The last hormone responsible for an “acu-high'' is dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role as our brain’s “reward center”. Dopamine allows you to feel motivation and satisfaction. Low levels of dopamine are linked to depression, tiredness, and unmotivation. Doing self-care activities like getting acupuncture, taking a nap while you are in a private session, allows you to rest and rejuvenate before waking to tackle the rest of your day. Your body releases dopamine after acupuncture treatment and helps you find things interesting again.
Endorphins, oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine are all a key role in the blissful feelings triggered by an acupuncture treatment. While there are many ways to achieve higher levels of these hormones, acupuncture provides a one-stop-shop where your body can naturally tap into these components. You have everything within you to begin your healing process, acupuncture honors your body’s capabilities while coaxing it in the right direction.