From time to time You settle into a warm, comfortable bed, close your eyes and nothing happens, you just can’t fall asleep. Hours go by and still you’re awake. The next day you feel tired, grouchy, and are unable to focus.
Does this sound familiar?
Sleepless nights happen to most of us from time to time, but ongoing insomnia can indicate a deeper issue. What’s more, lack of prolonged periods of restful sleep could lead to other health concerns down the road.
Unfortunately for many, the typical “solution” is to resort to over-the-counter or prescription medication, which can cause side effects and possibly dependence. For this reason alone it makes sense to consider using an all-natural approach to your insomnia.
And acupuncture can be a very effective way to improve your sleep quality without any harmful side effects.
How acupuncture can help
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), conditions such as insomnia are a sign of an imbalance in Qi (pronounced “chee”) which is the vital energy that animates your body and protects it from illness.
Here are a few questions you might be asked during your initial appointment:
- Do you have difficulty falling asleep?
- Do you have difficulty staying asleep?
- Is your sleep filled with vivid dreams?
- Is it difficult to calm your mind at night?
- Is it difficult to sleep on your back?
- Do you only sleep on your back with outstretched arms?
- Do you prefer to sleep on your stomach or side?
An imbalance can stem from a number of causes, such as: stress, anxiety, medications, depression, and chronic pain.
The goal of your initial appointment is to help determine the underlying causes of your insomnia. To do so I will take a number of factors into account, such as your lifestyle and emotional and mental well-being.
A treatment plan will be set up with the goal of restoring the balance and flow of Qi in your body. Other holistic therapies might be recommended as well, such as:
- aromatherapy
- yoga
- meditation
- or other additional therapies
You may find that after your first session you have a very restful sleep. However, more than one visit might be required to treat your chronic insomnia.
Tips for a restful sleep
- Stick to a regular schedule
- Plan to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
- Stay active. Exercise regularly, but not within a few hours of bedtime
- Don’t eat large meals before bed
- Try not to nap — if you really need to nap, try to keep it short, less than 45 minutes
- Limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine — all of these can add to sleep problems
- Relax — try taking a warm bath, meditating, or reading to wind down before going to sleep
Schedule your appointment today
If you have questions about how acupuncture can help you, or you’re ready to schedule your first appointment, please call me (Marnie) at 503-282-5666.
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