Chinese Medicine tips for better sleep

Author: Martina Ilic, Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine

After consultation, a group of acupuncture points and/or a herbal formula is selected based on your diagnoses, to take a personalised approach to address the root cause of your sleeping issues and to help restore your body to a restful state.

Some general advice:

·        Follow the Chinese Medicine clock: Go to bed before 11pm - your Liver and Gallbladder need time to rest and restore. Wake up between 5-7am – early rising supports the lungs, thus supporting healthy respiratory and immune function and regulates your circadian rhythmGoing to bed and waking up at these times, gives you a full sleep cycle

·        Wind down properly:Avoid devices and intense workouts before bed, this makes it harder to calm down. Do some gentle stretching instead and things that you find relaxing.

·        Take a warm shower and avoid cold and wind exposure:Warmth helps calm the body and relax the mind so either take a warm shower or a foot soak. Sleeping with the windows open, with wet hair or the aircon/fans on can lead to restlessness, headaches and stiff neck

·        Eat a warm dinner and avoid food 2 hours before bed:Your spleen and stomach need time to rest and digest, heavy or improper food can disrupt rest

·        Try herbal teas:Teas like chrysanthemum and red dates can help ease tension and promote relaxation

·        Press these acupuncture points before bed for at least 30 seconds each:

1.     Yingtang: at the midpoint of the eyebrows

2.     Anmian: behind the ear, just under the mastoid bone

3.     Heart 7: at the wrist joint in the depression on the radial (thumb) side

4.     Kidney 1: On the sole of the foot, between 2nd and 3rd toe, in a depression when the foot is bent

These points can calm the mind and help with sleep.

By following these recommendations and considering acupuncture or herbal medicine, you can be on your way for a restful night sleep!

Book your appointment now.

Martina Ilic