sleep disorders

 Sleep Disorders in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – Natural Treatments

Sleep disorders are a growing problem that affects the quality of life, mental and physical health. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers effective methods for restoring healthy sleep by harmonizing the energy "Qi" and balancing the organs. The TCM approach includes acupressure, herbal medicine, qigong techniques and meditation, as well as complementary support from modern medicine. With these natural methods, you can restore the body's balance, reduce stress and improve the quality of sleep.

1. ACUPRESSURE FOR HEALTHY SLEEP

Acupressure involves stimulating specific points on the body that regulate the flow of Qi energy and aid relaxation. In the case of sleep problems, the following are particularly effective:

Anmian ("Sleep Point"): Located behind the ear, just at the base of the skull, this point helps to quiet the mind, calm the heart, and reduce stress.

HT7 (Shenmen) : A point on the wrist that has a soothing effect on the nervous system and calms the heart. Regular stimulation of HT7 helps to fall asleep and extends sleep time.

SP6 (Sanyinjiao) : A point on the inside of the calf that regulates the liver, spleen, and kidneys – organs crucial to emotional balance and sleep.

A few minutes of massaging each of these points before sleep can help improve the quality of your sleep and reduce the number of nighttime awakenings.

2. HERBS IN TCM FOR INSOMNIA

Herbal medicine is an important part of TCM and has been used for centuries to combat insomnia. TCM uses many herbs that help calm the body, reduce stress and support regeneration during sleep:

Suan Zao Ren (Jujube Seed) : This herb is one of the most important in treating insomnia. It helps calm the mind, supports heart health and harmonizes Yin energy.

He Huan Pi (Silk Tree Bark) : Used to relieve stress and improve mood, which supports restful sleep.

Long Gu (Fossilized animal bones) : In TCM used as a calming agent, supporting emotional balance.

A consultation with a TCM specialist will help you select the right herbs for your individual needs, which will bring the best results in the fight against insomnia.

3. QIGONG AND MEDITATION AS SUPPORT FOR RESTFUL SLEEP

Qigong practices are a series of exercises and breathing techniques that regulate the flow of energy, relax the body and mind. Qigong exercises, especially those focusing on breathing techniques, help release tension and reduce stress levels. Regular practice helps to calm down before sleep, making sleep deeper and more restorative.

Meditation, on the other hand, helps calm racing thoughts, reducing anxiety and stress, which often cause sleep problems. Even a few minutes of meditation in the evening can significantly improve the quality of sleep.

4. SUPPORT FOR MODERN MEDICINE

It is worth remembering that support from modern medicine, such as appropriate tests, health counseling, or supplementation, can be an excellent complement to TCM therapy. Often, sleep problems are the result of nutritional deficiencies, hormonal disorders, or chronic stress, which may require a holistic approach and regular monitoring.

TCM TEA RECIPE FOR BETTER SLEEP

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon Suan Zao Ren seeds (common jujube)

1 teaspoon He Huan Pi bark (silk tree)

500 ml hot water

Preparation method:

Boil water in a pot, then add Suan Zao Ren and He Huan Pi.

Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the herbs to infuse well.

Strain the infusion and set aside to cool.

Drink this tea about an hour before bed. Its calming effects will help prepare your body for a night of rest, calming both your body and mind.

In case of chronic sleep problems, it is important to consult a TCM specialist who will select an individual treatment plan tailored to the needs of the body.

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