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Woman getting Acupuncture to help with weight loss DrivenFit

Stress: How Acupuncture Can Help

Written by Luis Echeverry on . Posted in Chiropractic, Transformation.

Dealing with an extra dose of stress these days? You’re not alone. Between balancing work, homeschooling the kids, and other commitments, your stress levels are likely through the roof! What you may not realize is how stress can lead to significant health issues such as high blood pressure, heart conditions, premature aging, and a slew of other conditions. It’s time to get help! At Driven Fit in South Tampa, we can help ease (and manage) your stress levels with effective, chiropractic care treatments such as acupuncture. See how… 

What is Acupuncture? 

Ancient Chinese medicine believes the physical body to be regulated by an energy force called Qi.  

Similar to the circulatory system, Qi moves throughout the body via pathways called meridians. If the body is in a state of good health, it has optimal energy flow, and if the body is in an unbalanced state, it creates energetic blockages.  

Acupuncture promotes the body’s healthy energy flow of Qi and opens the blockages that may lead to physical and emotional disorders. It has been proven by numerous scientific studies to be one of the most viable and effective alternative methods for healing and overall well-being.  

 

Acupuncture is a natural, drug-free treatment for stress! 

How does Acupuncture Treat Stress?  

Stress is your body’s response to handling tough or demanding situations. Your nervous system springs into action and releases hormones that prepare you to either fight or take off i.e. the “fight or flight” response. 

By strategically inserting needles half a millimeter away from a nerve, acupuncture eases stress by releasing endorphins that stimulate the part of the brain that control emotions (including stress and anxiety) and leads to a more balanced Qi.  

Acupuncture offers benefits in other areas that can also reduce stress, some of which include:  

Manage Stress with Acupuncture 

To manage chronic stress and anxiety, people often turn to anti-anxiety medication which can result in negative side effects, such as weight gain, insomnia, dizziness, and more. Acupuncture is an effective and natural method of treating stress which attacks the problem at its roots. Best of all, the symptoms lessen almost immediately!   

At Driven Fit, we are proud to be partnered with Sponaugle Wellness Studio – one of Tampa’s premier chiropractic and natural healing specialists! We focus on creating a total healthy lifestyle at our studio gym.  If you are interested in learning more about acupuncture or would like to schedule a FREE consultation, please click here or call/text team Driven at (813) 440-3016. 

Woman getting Acupuncture to help with weight loss DrivenFit

Can Acupuncture Help with Weight Loss?

Written by Luis Echeverry on . Posted in Lifestyle, Rejuvenation, Transformation.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice in which tiny needles are inserted into specific points on your body. These help balance the flow of energy, resulting in physical and mental health improvements. When used in conjunction with diet, exercise and other lifestyle modifications, it is believed that acupuncture can also help with weight loss. Here’s how…

Acupuncture and Hormones

A recent study found that acupuncture (in conjunction with lifestyle changes) may help people with prediabetes lose weight by reducing their insulin and leptin resistance – both appetite-regulating hormones that play a role in long-term weight loss.

Acupuncture and Digestion

In addition to boosting metabolism, acupuncture is known to quiet the sympathetic nervous system (a.k.a. fight or flight response) and activate the parasympathetic system (the body’s rest and digest state).

The result is improved blood flow to your stomach, which aids in digestion and improves conditions such as bloating, irritable bowel syndrome and constipation.

Acupuncture and Stress

When stress eating is an issue, acupuncture can help. Stress relief is another major benefit to acupuncture treatments in that it is effective in blocking stress-induced spikes in hormones such as cortisol (the stress hormone) and the sympathetic nervous system. It releases endorphins (happy hormones), resulting in a calming effect and significantly helps those who suffer from depression and anxiety.

Acupuncture and Cravings

Research suggests that acupuncture (specifically ear-based acupuncture) can help curb cravings and addictions by altering brain chemicals associated with food addictions.

Acupuncture and Sleep

The same way acupuncture provides stress relief and helps the body with digestion (by shutting off the fight or flight response), it also aids with sleep deprivation. Getting enough sleep plays a critical role in weight loss and maintenance.

Why? Sleep deprivation can affect brain function and its ability to make good decisions. Those who are sleep deprived are more likely to snack more often, eat poorly and seek foods that are more comforting.

Acupuncture and Energy

Not only does acupuncture promote good sleep, but it also improves energy. This calorie-free energy boost supports diet and exercise which could lead to weight loss – meaning you have enough energy to hit the gym! No excuses!

A Total Transformation

Are you having a difficult time losing weight and are interested in alternative forms of treatment? Call or text our South Tampa wellness studio today at (813) 440-3016 to learn more about our acupuncture treatments, private and semi-private personal training, group classes, and more!

Acupuncture Tampa FAQs DrivenFit SWS

Acupuncture FAQs

Written by Luis Echeverry on . Posted in Rejuvenation.

Acupuncture originated in China more than 2,000 years ago and is currently one of the most commonly used medical procedures in the world. In fact, a survey from the National Health Interview showed an estimated 14 million adults in the United States incorporate acupuncture into their healthcare routine! Curious? Here we answer some of the most frequently asked questions we get asked by our clients…

Who can benefit from acupuncture?

Acupuncture treats a wide variety of ailments and conditions including allergies, pain management, surgical prevention/ recovery, disease prevention and health maintenance, fertility issues or other gynecological disorders.

How does acupuncture work?

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that imbalances in the basic energy flow of life (known as qi) are the main cause of illness and other ailments. Qi is believed to flow through pathways (or meridians) in your body and are accessible through approximately 400 different acupuncture points. When needles are inserted into these points, it is believed that energy flow will rebalance and allow for your body’s natural healing mechanisms to take over.

In contrast, Western medicine has its own theories about acupuncture and believes that it incorporates modern concepts of neuroscience. According to the National Institutes of Health, researchers believe acupuncture works based on the following explanations:

  • Opioid Release: During acupuncture, your body releases endorphins (part of your body’s natural pain-control system) into your brain and spinal cord, creating a similar effect to taking pain medication.
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation: Also known as the “gate theory”, it is believed that acupuncture stimulates the nerves in your spinal cord to release pain-suppressing neurotransmitters.
  • Blood Flow Changes: Acupuncture needles are known to increase the amount of blood flow throughout the body, supplying additional nutrients and removing toxic substances – both of which promote healing.

How many sessions do I need?

While the number of sessions is dependent upon your specific condition or needs, acupuncture therapy typically involves a series of weekly or biweekly treatments. Each session usually lasts for 30 to 60 minutes.

What can I expect from my visit?

Your initial visit with our resident acupuncturist, Dr. Sponaugle, will include an overall assessment of your condition, lifestyle, behavior, current medications, or other questions pertaining to your general health and well-being. She will use this information to create a treatment plan that bests suits your needs.

During the actual procedure, Dr. Sponaugle will insert individually wrapped, sterilized, stainless steel needles into the targeted acupuncture points. Needle insertions are generally painless; however, you may experience a sharp sensation when the needle reaches its target. After placement, needles may be gently moved or stimulated with electricity or heat.

Interested in giving acupuncture a try? We can help! For more information on our acupuncture treatments at our South Tampa wellness studio, please call or text (813) 440-3016.

Tampa acupuncturist science behind acupuncture

Is there Really Science behind Acupuncture?

Written by Luis Echeverry on . Posted in Transformation.

Acupuncture is one of the oldest healing therapies in the world, yet also considered cutting edge. The methods vary, but the most well-known form of acupuncture involves inserting very thin needles through a person’s skin at specific points on the body to various depths. Several scientific studies have shown it to be one of the most effective alternative methods for patients – giving scientific backing to acupuncture. But what exactly is the scientific theory behind it and how does it work? Let’s nerd out about acupuncture with Dr. Sarah…

The Science Behind Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that health is the result of a harmonious balance of the complementary extremes of yin and yang. Disease is believed to come from an imbalance in these forces, which leads a blockage in the qi (also spelled chi).

Qi is said to flow through the meridians (or pathways) in the human body, and the meridians are accessible through 350 acupuncture points in the body. Inserting needles into these points is said to bring the energy flow back into proper balance, thus restoring and maintaining health.

 

Qi -the vital energy or life force believed to regulate your spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health

 

Not everyone believes in the ancient Chinese reasoning behind acupuncture. Another theory is that acupuncture is a form of neuroscience where the acupuncture points are seen as places where nerves, muscles, and connective tissue can be stimulated. The stimulation increases blood flow while also triggering the body’s natural healing properties. It’s not all in your head, acupuncture works.

Benefits of Acupuncture 

Although there may be conflicting beliefs in the science behind acupuncture, it is and has been a viable form of healing for thousands of years. More than 3 million Americans use acupuncture as a form of treating a wide range of emotional and physical conditions. Most commonly acupuncture is seen as a treatment for pain, which is understandable as this is the best-studied aspect of the practice.

Acupuncture offers benefits including:

  • Mood enhancement
  • Better quality of sleep
  • Allergy relief
  • Immune system & digestive support
  • Headache relief
  • Blood pressure control
  • Fertility enhancement

Interested in Acupuncture?

Should you try acupuncture? Research has found it to be very safe, with few side effects.

If you want to see how this form of natural therapy can help you, then call/text us for an appointment with our expert South Tampa acupuncturist, Dr. Sarah Sponaugle, D.C.

Benefits of Acupuncture Driven Fit Tampa FL

Surprising Benefits of Acupuncture

Written by Luis Echeverry on . Posted in Rejuvenation.

Age-old Chinese wisdom views the physical body as a collection of energetic fields. If the body is in a state of good health, it allows for optimal energy flow. On the other hand, if the body is in a disease-ridden state, it creates energetic blockages. Acupuncture has been proven by numerous scientific studies to be one of the most viable and effective alternative methods for overall wellbeing and healing. Take a closer look at the many acupuncture benefits…they may just surprise you.

Benefits of Acupuncture

Mood Enhancement

There are many causes for fluctuating moods and even depression. Whether chronic stress, everyday worries, or imbalanced hormones are the culprit for stress, acupuncture can offer significant relief. With the application of acupuncture needles, your central nervous system becomes stimulated and releases endorphins and other chemicals that will lift your mood. This will lead to a more positive mindset and less anxiety.

Headache Relief

To treat headaches, acupuncture needles are carefully placed near specific nerves that offer a pain-reductive effect. Endorphins are released that relieve pressure and help with discomfort of recurring headaches and migraines.

Sleep Quality

Acupuncture increases your body’s natural ability to produce melatonin – a hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycles. Thanks to our busy lifestyles and poor sleep habits, melatonin is often underproduced which contributes to insomnia and sleep deprivation. Acupuncture will help restore your natural ability to fall asleep (and remain asleep!).

Immune System Support

The immune system is the body’s first line of defense, and acupuncture not only strengthens the immune system to fight infection and other harmful threats, it speeds up healing as well. Acupuncture is also known to balance an overactive immune system that can lead to various autoimmune diseases.

Energy Boost

We all could use an energy boost, right? Acupuncture offers tremendous benefits in this department by fighting off exhaustion or “brain fog”. It aids in balancing the body’s energetic field, so organs function correctly. As a result, it leads to a state of ease, reduced pain, increased physical stamina, and mental clarity.

 

Age-old Chinese wisdom views the physical body as a collection of energetic fields. If the body is in a state of good health, it allows for optimal energy flow.

Blood Pressure Control

Acupuncture has been known to outperform pharmaceutical drugs when it comes to improving heart function and blood flow. With regular treatment, the cardiovascular system can work at an optimal level, which leads to lowered blood pressure, a stronger heart muscle, and improved overall cardio fitness.

Allergy Reduction

By boosting the body’s natural immunity and self-healing ability, allergens are less likely to wreak havoc. Regular acupuncture sessions treat the symptoms of allergies such as a runny nose, puffy eyes, scratchy throat, and constant sneezing.

Digestive Support

Acupuncture treats virtually all digestive system conditions (think acute gastrointestinal problems, Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or gallstones) by supporting the healthy functioning of the digestive system and its organs, as well as rebalancing faulty energetic fields.

Fertility Enhancement

Acupuncture supports the reproductive organs and the optimal production of male and female hormones to increase fertility. It also helps with the healthy progression of pregnancy and has the capacity to optimize the child’s position in the uterus for a natural, less problematic delivery.

 

Interested in Acupuncture? Call Driven + Sponaugle Wellness Studio

After reading acupuncture benefits, who wouldn’t be ready for their first appointment? Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese healing tradition, promotes the body’s healthy energy flow and, when needed, will open the blockages that can lead to physical and emotional disorders. If you are suffering from any of the ailments listed above, then please contact Driven + Sponaugle Wellness Studio for a consultation with our expert Tampa acupuncturist, Dr. Sarah Sponaugle, D.C.

Jessica Bull Testimonial

Jessica Bull


The physical and mental aspects, truly sets your coaching programs apart.

As runner now aiming for personal bests, Luis’s adaptive coaching has been a game-changer. The custom training plan, precision in pacing strategies, and innovative techniques have propelled me to new heights in my races. 

I've shattered performance plateaus, and each race feels like a triumph. 

What was not even a dream become a reality when 

“I qualified for Boston” showing me anything is possible ????????

Beyond the individual successes, the sense of community fostered by your coaching team is remarkable. 

The support, encouragement, and camaraderie among fellow runners create an inspiring environment that fuels everyone's journey.

Thank you, Luis, and the entire run adaptive coaching team, for the dedication, expertise, and unwavering support. Joining your Run coaching programs has truly been the best decision I've made for my running journey. I'm not just achieving my goals; I'm surpassing them with each stride.

Gratefully,

Jessica

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Andrew Brown Testimonial

Andrew Brown


I am writing this testimonial with immense gratitude and excitement about the incredible journey I've had with your Run coaching programs, particularly under the guidance of Luis, my run adaptive coach.

Before joining, I was a runner with aspirations of improvement but unsure of where to begin. Luis’s coaching not only provided a structured plan but also instilled confidence in me from day one. 

The personalized approach, tailored to my fitness level and goals, made all the difference.

One of the key benefits I've experienced is the significant improvement in my running technique. 

Luis’s attention to my run programming has not only prevented injuries but has also made my runs more efficient and enjoyable. 

The gradual progression in training ensured that I never felt overwhelmed, and each milestone achieved boosted my motivation.

The mental toughness training incorporated into the program has been transformative. Luis's guidance has not only helped me overcome mental barriers during runs but has also positively impacted various aspects of my life. 

I’m Looking forward to my next few blocks of run coaching leading up to my next marathon in Berlin where I will be looking to reach a sub 4hr marathon ????????

~Andrew Brown

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Jason Arnold Testimonial

Jason Arnold


The approach of sending workouts directly to my watch and the personalized support provided has been a game-changer in achieving my personal best at the half marathon distance.

The convenience of having my workouts seamlessly integrated with my watch has transformed the way I approach training. It's not just about the ease of access; it's the strategic planning and adaptability that make your coaching methods stand out. Each run felt purposeful, and the progression was noticeable from week to week.

What truly sets your coaching apart is the unwavering support I received. The encouragement, insights, and personalized feedback have been instrumental in my success. It's more than just a training plan; it's a collaborative journey where my goals are embraced and pursued with dedication.

I recently achieved a personal best at the half marathon, and I credit this accomplishment to the meticulous coaching and guidance I received. The precision in pacing, strategic advice on race-day tactics, and the mental resilience training have elevated my performance beyond my expectations.

Thank you, luis and the entire run adaptive team, for the commitment, expertise, and continuous support. Your coaching methods have not only improved my running but have also enriched my overall perspective on fitness and well-being.

~ Jason Arnold

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