Acupuncture for Insomnia

Acupuncture for insomnia is an effective treatment option for people struggling with the effects of poor sleep and sleep disturbance.

Insomnia is incredibly common, affecting 30% of adults in the UK. It affects twice as many women as men and is especially prevalent amongst older people. And sleep problems are on the rise, especially amongst young adults.

Insomnia symptoms

Insomnia is a sleep disorder where you may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or waking too early. In Chinese medicine it also includes restless or dream-disturbed sleep. If you have any of these symptoms you may have insomnia and should seek support.

Chronic insomnia can contribute to a range of health issues including obesity, cardiovascular disease and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Insomnia treatment

Conventional treatment for insomnia includes over-the-counter medicines such as antihistamines or herbal remedies. GPs now rarely prescribe sleeping pills unless the condition is severe as they are highly addictive and have unpleasant side-effects. Your GP may refer you to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), although the waiting lists are long.

Acupuncture for insomnia

In Traditional Chinese Medicine insomnia occurs because of an imbalance between Yin and Yang, as well as disruptions in Qi, Blood, and the 12 organ systems.

The Heart is central to sleep in TCM, as it houses the Shen (spirit) which is responsible for good sleep. Other organs, such as the Liver, Spleen, and Kidneys are also often involved.

Different TCM patterns can cause different symptoms.

Heart Blood or Yin deficiency often leads to difficulty staying asleep, with symptoms like palpitations, night sweats, and vivid dreams.

Liver Qi stagnation or Liver Fire, caused by stress and emotional frustration, results in difficulty falling asleep, irritability, and a restless mind.

Spleen and Stomach disharmony, often due to late-night eating or weak digestion, can cause disturbed sleep with bloating or discomfort.

Kidney Yin deficiency, common with aging, or excessive overwork or exercise, leads to waking up frequently and night sweats. This is the most common cause of poor sleep during menopause.

Acupuncture treatment focuses on balancing the affected organs with body and auricular acupuncture. It is combined with dietary advice, and lifestyle adjustments to restore the natural rhythm of your sleep pattern.

Top tips for better sleep quality

Have a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. This will help balance your circadian rhythm and guide your body to a better sleep duration.
Eat regular meals and allow a few hours between eating your last meal of the day and going to bed.
Ensure good sleep hygiene by winding down before bedtime. Use low-lighting, have a screen curfew, take a warm bath and do gentle breathing exercises to calm your nervous system.
Keep devices like phones and laptops out of the bedroom completely. Invest in an alarm clock if you need one.
Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol, and dark chocolate, particularly in the afternoon and evening.
Block out light and keep the bedroom cool for more restful sleep.
If you’re kept awake with a busy mind, try journaling before you go to sleep.
Exercise but not to excess and avoid doing it late in the day. Qi Gong, Tai Qi and Yoga are all beneficial.

Are you looking for peaceful sleep and want to know how traditional acupuncture can help? Then book in for a free 15-minute telephone consultation.

Book Online