When we toss and turn at night, or wake up after just an hour or so of sleep, chances are we suffer from insomnia. According to a recent study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, 25 % of Americans suffer from acute or short-term insomnia.

While the condition itself is a problem, dealing with insomnia can be just as stressful and challenging. People who suffer from insomnia often experience heightened moodiness, low energy, irritability, and a weak immune system.

There are a number of methods that can treat insomnia and anxiety, one of which is through acupuncture.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a natural and holistic method of treating a variety of physical and mental conditions. This 3,000-year old Chinese healing technique makes use of thin, sterile needles that are inserted into different acupuncture points in the body to unblock the meridians (or pathways) so that the body’s “chi” (or energy) flows freely. The procedure is gentle and painless to the patient.

The procedure provides long-term pain relief, improves bodily functions, and restores the body and mind’s balance.

Using acupuncture to treat insomnia

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that people experience when they have a hard time falling asleep or staying asleep.

In holistic terms, insomnia is caused by an energy imbalance that blocks the usual flow of one’s bodily functions. Acupuncture helps restore this balance by naturally stimulating the body’s nerves, muscles, and tissues, which increases the flow of blood. Before an acupuncturist can start treating a patient with insomnia, they have to know the kind of symptoms you experience.

The most common symptoms of insomnia are:

Difficulty falling asleep
Difficulty staying asleep
Waking up in the middle of the night
Waking up too early in the morning
A health condition that causes sleeplessness

Once your acupuncturist knows your symptoms, they can identify which area of the body is the best placement for the acupuncture needles.

Using acupuncture to treat anxiety

Anxiety is a general type of mental disorder marked by excessive fear, worry, and nervousness. Ranging from mild to severe, anxiety can disrupt daily life because it affects the way one thinks, feels, and acts. While there are many different ways to deal with this common disorder, acupuncture is a natural alternative treatment.

Acupuncture stimulates the body’s brain and nervous system, which helps the patient feel more balanced. It also reduces erratic thought patterns and worry. Based on the symptoms you’re experiencing, a qualified acupuncturist will insert needles on specific points in your body. Your acupuncturist will also recommend self-help therapies you can do at home such as exercise, employing breathing techniques, and meditation.

When to go

The best time to go to a qualified acupuncturist is whenever you start feeling the symptoms of insomnia and anxiety. Since these conditions cannot be treated in one go, the number of recurring sessions may vary, depending on the severity of your symptoms and the recommendation of your acupuncturist.

For natural and holistic ways to treat your insomnia and anxiety, the acupuncturists at WholeBody Solutions can help. Learn more about our services by visiting our Acupuncture page. Or, give us a call at 617.328.6300.