Ask The Professional: TCM – Acupuncturist: How can I get a better handle on my hormones?

Posted by | April 12, 2010 | Blog | No Comments

Hormonal imbalances is not only an older women’s problem, it has affected men as well; and now it is affecting both females and males at any age, with different symptoms and signs.

Although most people have problems of the hormonal imbalance in their lives, it has become an extremely common problem affecting people’s health and life quality.

One of the most common therapies used in the western world is Hormonal replacement, a therapy helping people with symptoms of chronic fatigue, mood swings or irritability, irregular periods, PMS, infertility, depression, anxiety, hot or cold flashes, weight gain or weight loss, craving for sweets or carbohydrates, night sweats, joint pain and stiffness, sleep disorder, headaches, foggy thinking, vertigo, digestive problems, hair loss, dry skin, heart palpitation, vaginal dryness or vaginal discharge, low libido, sexual dysfunction, impotence, prostate problems.
These therapies may be long term and have side effects varying according to each individual, a proper diagnosis by means of a blood test is important.

Ancient Medicine Healers and physicians believed that role of healthy hormones play great role in the quality of our lives.
Acupuncture and Natural Medicine have stood the test of time and are proven to be safe and effective for hormonal imbalances. It is very important to have a correct clinical diagnosis to find the best method for each individuals needs when treating the signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
Traditional Chinese Medicine’s physician uses different combinations of needles and herbs to treat any of the symptoms and to help restore balance.

Other methods include Meditation: which is an art of mental discipline by which the aim is to get beyond the mechanical, “thinking” mind into a deeper state of relaxation or awareness.  Meditation is implemented by many and has been practiced for thousands of years. The goal is to achieve a higher state of consciousness, greater focus, self-awareness, a more relaxed and peaceful frame of mind.
It helps reduce the physical effects of stress on the body which contribute to hormonal imbalances.
Meditation helps to lower the levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Related benefits include: weight control, lowering blood pressure and heart rate, improving digestion and boosting the immune system as well as easing symptoms of conditions such as anxiety, depression, fatigue and insomnia.
Meditation can aid efforts by reducing the cortisol levels as well as by reducing stress. Meditation may also encourage healthy eating habits and provides a heightened sense of well being and self esteem.
Meditation helps us to focus on the present, to become more aware and to help create mind body health. It opens the way to improved concentration, coordination, reaction time and memory.

The pondering aspects of Meditation help many to reach a deeper, more spiritual and more satisfying place in their lives. Many who begin to practice for other reasons have reported this to be a key reason that Meditation has become an essential part of their daily lives.

Angie Tobon, R.Ac, CNP, RRPr.
Licensed Medical & Cosmetic Acupuncturist & TCM Practitioner
Certified Naturotherapy Practitioner