I think it's safe to say that we are all sick of 2020, whether that's mentally or physically.

But if you're looking for another way to cope with this year, besides re-watching The Office or making another batch of banana bread, consider trying acupuncture.

Now, I'm sure the first think you think of when you hear that word is needles.

But, while needles are obviously involved, acupuncture can actually be a relaxing way to improve both your physical and mental health.

"Acupuncture is great for pain management. It's great for...cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy. Even now, we're seeing more patients come in who are going through IVF," said Dr. Monte Labash, an acupuncturist with Del Sol Community Wellness, in our "Tuned In to NoCo" interview. "Right now, everybody's very anxious, everybody's very stressed out. And that is something that I'm starting to definitely advertise for is acupuncture [for] anxiety stress."

The practice, which is a facet of Chinese medicine, works by using needles to move energy, or Chi, throughout your body, which relaxes the muscles, reduces inflammation, and releases endorphins.

If this sounds a little too "far out" for your taste, don't worry. Acupuncture can be, and is often, used in conjunction with typical Western medicine.

And, if you're nervous around needles, there's no need to be. The process is not painful, and the needles are flexible and small.

"The best medicine for you to prevent getting sick is definitely a more plant-based diet, you don't have to be a vegetarian. Home cooked foods, and getting out and moving," said Labash. "And then of course my other tip is come get regular acupuncture, and come learn about what acupuncture can do for you and just your overall general health."

Learn more about the health benefits of acupuncture by listening to the full "Tuned In to NoCo" interview with Dr. Monte Labash below.

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