Acupuncture is thought to work by stimulating the nervous system and releasing endorphins, the body’s natural “painkiller”. It has also been found to activate receptors on cells which send signals along pathways which encourage the body to operate optimally. It can help to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation. Because it was simply known as medicine in Asian countries, it can help with most any ailment.
There is some evidence to suggest that acupuncture can be helpful for reintegrating after a psychedelic therapy session. A 2019 study found that acupuncture helped to reduce anxiety and improve mood in people who had recently undergone MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. Another study, published in 2021, found that acupuncture helped to improve integration in people who had taken psilocybin for depression. As more states and countries approve psychedelics for use in mental health research, more studies will come out to show what those of us working in the field already know, that acupuncture can help reset the body via neurological, emotional, and physical pathways after a therapeutic psychedelic session.
Some of the ways that acupuncture can help post-psychedelic session:
- It can help to reduce anxiety and stress.
- It can improve mood and emotional regulation.
- It can promote physical well-being.
- It can enhance self-awareness and insight.
- It can support the integration of new insights and behaviors.
Acupuncture is a safe and gentle procedure that can be used by people of all ages. It is a good option for people who are looking for a natural and holistic approach to reintegration after psychedelic therapy.
Some of the ways that acupuncture can help post-psychedelic session:
Reducing anxiety and stress.
Psychedelic experiences can sometimes be intense and overwhelming. Acupuncture can help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety and stress levels.
Improving mood and emotional regulation.
Psychedelics can also cause mood swings and emotional instability. Acupuncture can help to improve mood and emotional regulation by balancing the body’s energy systems.
Promoting physical well-being.
Psychedelic experiences can sometimes cause physical side effects, such as fatigue, headaches, and nausea. Acupuncture can help to relieve these side effects and promote overall physical well-being.
Enhancing self-awareness and insight.
Psychedelics can lead to profound insights into oneself and the world around one. Acupuncture can help to enhance self-awareness and insight by opening up the mind and body to new possibilities.
Supporting the integration of new insights and behaviors.
Psychedelic experiences can motivate people to make positive changes in their lives. Acupuncture can help to support the integration of these changes by providing a safe and supportive space for healing and transformation.
Whether you are investigating your first psychedelic session or if it’s been years since the last one, seeking acupuncture for regulation and reintegration can be a good choice for maintaining consistent biorhythms. Talking to a qualified acupuncturist who is experienced in working with people who have had psychedelic experiences can help you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs.