5 Reasons Why You Should Be Using Acupuncture To Enhance Athletic Ability.

Acupuncture is a go-to therapy for many elite athletes, but you don't have to be going to the Olympics this summer in order to experience its benefits in your athletic adventures.  Whether you're a crossfitter, yogi, weekend warrior, or young athlete, acupuncture can help you feel stronger, healthier, and more aware.

We all know that acupuncture works great for sports injuries by decreasing inflammation (swelling, bruising, redness), relaxing muscles and tendons, calming spasms, improving circulation, and lowering the body's pain response.  And this is wonderful for athletes who go through a lot of wear and tear on their bodies.

But you may be surprised to learn that acupuncture is actually most beneficial when incorporated into training and recovery regimes, before an injury surfaces.  Those who do notice better performance, fewer injuries, and more enjoyment!

5 Reasons to Start Using Acupuncture for Athletics

• Speeds recovery time

Acupuncture helps you bounce back from intense workouts by accelerating the healing process.  Research shows that athletes who exercise to exhaustion and then receive acupuncture 24 and 48 hours post workout reported significantly less pain than those who did not receive acupuncture.

• Reduces stress and anxiety

Acupuncture's harmonizing effect on body and mind through the nervous system helps you to become more focused and less anxious.  Being more focused and relaxed will improve athletic performance across the board.

• Improves sleep

Acupuncture is a safe and natural way to stop sleep issues such as difficulty falling asleep or waking through the night.  Consistent treatments will have you starting your day feeling rested and ready to take your workout to the next level.

• Strengthens the immune system

Studies show that acupuncture raises T-cell counts, even days after a treatment.  T-cells are responsible for destroying harmful bacteria and viruses.  By preventing sickness, you'll miss fewer workouts and be able to improve performance.

• Increases awareness

Most people notice that acupuncture helps them tune into their body, mind, and emotions at subtler, deeper levels.  Being mindful of yourself and your surroundings is not only a great tool during competitions, but also for increasing enjoyment of life.

There's no denying it.  Acupuncture is an excellent modality for all aspects of any athletes' health and well-being.  Find an acupuncturist you vibe with and give it a try!