When done correctly, acupuncture can provide several benefits, such as pain management, stress reduction, and sleep improvement.
Although it takes a few sessions to improve your symptoms, you’re usually guaranteed to feel rejuvenated after each session. But if you want that relaxing feeling to last, it’s important to take care of yourself after the treatment.
To help prolong the effects, here’s a quick guide on what you should do after your acupuncture sessions.
1. Drink plenty of water
It’s highly recommended you drink plenty of water after your acupuncture session, as it helps flush out toxins and restore the balance in your system. If you’re not fond of drinking water alone, you can also add a slice of lemon or cucumber to make it more refreshing.
But as thirsty as you may be, it’s best to avoid drinking alcohol and coffee since they can make you dehydrated.
A study also shows that caffeine can reverse the pain-relieving effects that acupuncture provides. So if you’re using the treatment to manage your symptoms, remember to skip your cup of joe for a day or two to prolong the benefits of acupuncture.
2. Allow time to relax
As you know, acupuncture can provide a relaxing effect after your session. So there’s no shame if you feel sleepy and might want to take a nap.
Although you don’t need to sleep for one full day, just let yourself rest since your body will recover faster the longer you stay in a restful slumber.
This sense of tranquility will also improve your sleep, which can be helpful if you’re suffering from insomnia. It also helps your injuries heal faster since you won’t be straining your muscles. So this would be the perfect time to stay in and read a book or catch up on your favorite tv shows!
3. Stay warm
Your body needs to stay warm after your acupuncture session to improve blood circulation, keep your energy flowing, and open up blocked passages.
But this doesn’t mean you need to wear a sweater in the middle of summer, it just means you need to avoid exposing your body to colder temperatures, like taking a cold shower or dipping into an ice bath.
If you have bruises from the needles, treat them with a hot compress instead of an ice pack since the cold can inhibit your energy flow and reverse the effects of acupuncture.
So for a few days, stick to taking warm showers and eating hot soup to help replenish your body.
4. Avoid strenuous exercises
Acupuncture can provide a relaxing effect on your muscles. So if you want to prolong its benefits, it’s best to avoid doing strenuous exercises, like weightlifting and high-intensity workouts, after your session.
Don’t worry, you can still hit the gym, but it’s recommended you stick to doing lighter exercises, like walking, pilates, or yoga. In some cases, these exercises can even maximize the effects of acupuncture by stretching your muscles. As a result, improving your flexibility and range of motion.
But if you have a recent injury, it’s best to let your body rest after your session, or working out can exacerbate your symptoms.
5. Eat healthy foods
Eating healthy is also key to prolong the benefits of acupuncture. It helps rebalance your digestive system and provides you with an overall sense of wellness.
So this is the perfect time to incorporate a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables into your meals. But don’t forget to add a serving of healthy protein for a balanced diet.
As tempting as it is, avoid eating greasy and processed foods since these can slow down your digestion. Spicy foods can also upset your stomach, so hold off on consuming your favorite dishes a few days after your session.
6. Take note of after effects
Although you rarely get negative side effects from acupuncture, everyone’s body can react differently to the treatment. Some will feel relaxed and rejuvenated, while others can experience bruising, lightheadedness, nausea, or lethargy.
If you’re using acupuncture to manage the symptoms of a certain disease, it’s important to take note of any side effects you feel after your session. This way, you can consult your doctor to determine if it’s compatible with your treatment.
Normally, the side effects will go away after a few days. But if they persist, consult your doctor immediately.
Acupuncture Session Wrap-up
In summary, proper post-acupuncture care is essential to maximize and prolong the benefits of your treatment. By following these simple guidelines – staying hydrated, allowing time for rest, keeping warm, avoiding strenuous exercise, eating healthily, and monitoring any after-effects – you can enhance the effectiveness of your acupuncture sessions. Remember, everyone’s body responds differently to treatment, so it’s important to listen to your body and consult with your practitioner if you have any concerns. With the right aftercare, you can help ensure that your acupuncture experience contributes positively to your overall health and well-being.
