ABSTRACT
[...]the present authors recommend that substantial resources be devoted to the study of these practices as potential tools for stress reduction and improvement in public health. Chronic stress is at epidemic proportions in much of the world, especially with the current COVID-19 pandemic,1 and chronic psychosocial stress may even be characterized as a potential public health disaster.2 Psychosocial stress has been studied extensively, including its epidemiology and dimensions relating to mental health concerns.3 Stress has particularly been examined in regard to the workplace, as occupational stress has been found to be ubiquitous in the majority of industrialized nations.4,5 Chronic stress has been linked to numerous disease states, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes,6,7 as well as psychological health problems, including anxiety and depression,1,8,9 with specific biomarkers found to be associated with stress.10 Western medicine techniques often involve pharmacological and surgical interventions, however they do not tend to address the underlying issue of stress that may be affecting the disease state. Germane to the present discussion of stress, the Triple Warmer meridian governs the sympathetic nervous system and is associated with the 'fight or flight' (stress) response. [...]this meridian may offer partial explanation for reports of the stress reduction effects of acupuncture.36,37 Additionally, there are 8 'extra' meridians and various minor meridians. The needle placements and associated sensations are said to activate the body's qi, including sending blood to the meridians and collaterals. [...]deqi is viewed as a prerequisite to the healing process in the acupuncture system.41,42 Potential Physiological Mechanisms of Acupuncture In addition