Insomnia: A Hidden Health Risk You Should Not Ignore

Insomnia: A Hidden Health Risk You Should Not Ignore

 

Insomnia is a common condition that can affect people of all ages. Patients often struggle to fall asleep despite having enough time and opportunity to rest. Many take 30 minutes to over an hour to fall asleep, experience light or restless sleep, have frequent dreams, or wake up during the night and find it difficult to fall back asleep.

 

These symptoms indicate that the body remains in a state of heightened alertness, preventing proper rest. As a result, individuals may wake up feeling fatigued, unrefreshed, and lacking energy, which can negatively impact the function of internal organs and reduce overall productivity.

 

Insomnia from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective

 

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body is viewed as a connected system involving five key organs:
Lungs, Spleen, Heart, Liver, and Kidneys.

 

When one organ is imbalanced, it can affect others. For example:

๐ A deficiency in the Heart and Spleen may lead to difficulty falling asleep and waking up feeling exhausted.

 

Acupuncture Treatment for Insomnia

 

Patients experiencing insomnia can seek treatment at specialized clinics such as Qinglong Clinic, where acupuncture is used to restore balance and improve sleep quality. Specific acupuncture points are selected for targeted treatment:

 

1. Shenmen (HT7) - “Gate of the Mind”

Located at the wrist crease on the inner side of the little finger.

 

Benefits:

๐ Regulates heart function

๐ Calms the mind

๐ Reduces anxiety and restlessness

๐ Promotes better sleep

 

2. Anmian (EX-HN22) - “Peaceful Sleep Point”

Located behind the ear, midway between the earlobe and the back of the head.

 

Benefits:

๐ Specifically used to treat insomnia

๐ Helps induce deeper and more restful sleep

 

3. Neiguan (PC6)

Located about two finger-widths above the inner wrist crease.

 

Benefits:

๐ Regulates energy flow (Qi)

๐ Relieves chest tightness

๐ Calms the mind and reduces stress

 

4. Baihui (GV20)

Located at the top center of the head.

 

Benefits:

๐ Improves blood circulation to the brain

๐ Promotes relaxation

๐ Enhances sleep quality

 

Lifestyle Tips to Improve Sleep Quality

 

In addition to treatment, lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve sleep:

๐ Avoid exercise close to bedtime

๐ Limit screen time (phones, tablets, computers) at least 2 hours before sleep

๐ Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea) in the afternoon and evening

These simple changes can help you fall asleep more easily and improve overall sleep quality.

 

Conclusion

 

Insomnia is more than just a minor inconvenience-it can significantly affect both physical and mental health if left untreated. Understanding its causes and seeking appropriate treatment, such as acupuncture or lifestyle modification, can help restore healthy sleep patterns.

 

 

 

 

 

Source : Qinglong Clinic

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team