Sleep
Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human health, essential for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Adequate sleep plays a crucial role in regulating hormone levels, supporting immune function, promoting cognitive function, and facilitating overall restoration and repair of the body. However, many individuals struggle with sleep disorders and sleep issues, ranging from difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep to waking up feeling unrested and fatigued. These sleep disturbances can significantly impact quality of life, productivity, and long-term health outcomes. In WS-TCM, sleep disturbances are viewed as disruptions in the body's Qi (vital energy) circulation, as well as imbalances in the Yin and Yang energies that govern the body's internal processes.
For sleep quality, Whole Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine (WS-TCM) offers a safe and effective alternative to pharmaceuticals. Many conventional drugs cause negative side effects—including headaches, fatigue, dry mouth, and dizziness. Alternatively, studies have shown that acupuncture enhances slow wave sleep (SWS), a type of deep sleep that occurs in the 3rd and 4th stages of REM sleep. Additionally, research confirms that acupuncture and herbs in combination improve sleep quality relative to pharmaceuticals, including estazolam—a sedative with serious side effects.
By stimulating specific acupoints along the body's meridians, acupuncture helps regulate the flow of Qi and blood, calm the mind, and promote relaxation. For individuals experiencing difficulty falling asleep, acupuncture points targeted for insomnia may include those located on the head, ears, and limbs, as well as points associated with the heart and liver meridians, which govern sleep and emotional well-being. Additionally, acupuncture can help address underlying factors contributing to sleep disturbances, such as stress, anxiety, and hormonal imbalances.
Chinese herbal remedies often include a combination of herbs known for their sedative, calming, and sleep-promoting properties. For example, herbs such as chamomile, valerian root, and passionflower may be used to induce relaxation, ease anxiety, and improve sleep quality.
WS-TCM dietary recommendations often include consuming nourishing foods that promote relaxation and support the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, such as warm soups, stews, and herbal teas. Foods rich in tryptophan, magnesium, and other sleep-promoting nutrients may also be emphasized to enhance sleep quality. Avoiding stimulating foods such as caffeine, sugar, and processed foods can further support sleep hygiene and promote restorative rest.
Chinese medicine has been used for thousands of years as a natural and gentle way to improve sleep. At Garden Acupuncture, we also specialize in pediatric sleep treatment, providing needle-free treatments for children as well as pediatric medical massage, dietary guidance, gentle herbs, and sleep hygiene recommendations. Adult and pediatric sleep-related disorders that may be treated with WS-TCM include:
Insomnia
Sleep apnea
ADHD
Restless leg syndrome
Stress
Pain
Furthermore, lifestyle modifications such as stress reduction techniques, regular physical activity, and establishing a consistent sleep routine are essential for improving sleep quality and managing sleep disorders. Stress reduction practices such as meditation, qigong, and tai chi can help calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Regular exercise can also help regulate sleep-wake cycles, reduce stress hormones, and promote overall well-being, contributing to better sleep quality. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule, optimizing the sleep environment, and practicing good sleep hygiene habits are important for setting the stage for restful and rejuvenating sleep.
Sleep is essential for the rest and repair our bodies need. Lack of quality sleep affects your ability to think clearly, react quickly, and form memories, while chronic sleep issues can lead to mood disorders and illness—in both children and adults. We work with our clients to understand not only their symptoms but the underlying patterns that may be inhibiting sleep. Treatment can include acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, ozone therapy, and lifestyle counseling. Relief may come within several visits, continuing to build throughout treatment. Insomnia treatments, as well as other sleep-related treatments, have become more popular - our staff is highly trained and ready to treat you for your individual needs. That’s why our clients refer to us as the best acupuncture NYC has to offer!
— David, Brooklyn
