Even mild insomnia can have serious effects on your health. It causes fatigue and lack of focus during the day, which can affect your mental health and make you more accident-prone. Many people look for a quick fix ‘pill-based’ solution to easing insomnia, and according to Acupuncture.com, their best option might be to try acupuncture.
The Chinese have used acupuncture for centuries to heal a variety of illnesses, and the technique can have many benefits when used correctly. There are numerous acupuncture points all over the body, all of which have slightly different effects.
Which Acupuncture Points Are Best for Treating Insomnia?
According to Modern Reflexology, the LV3 acupuncture point, which is also known as the Great Rushing, is the best point on the body for all problems, especially sleeping problems. The point is located on the top of the foot between the big toe and second toe. Experts at Explore IM recommend putting firm pressure on the LV3 acupuncture point for four or five seconds.
P6, which is also known as the Inner Gate, is another good option for improving sleep. It’s located about three finger widths above your wrist, in between the tendons. Applying pressure to P6 for about five minutes before releasing can help you fall asleep more easily.
You can also use K1, or the Bubbling Spring, to heal insomnia. This point is located on the bottom of your foot in the indentation under the ball of the foot. Apply pressure to K1 for 30 seconds, release it for five seconds, and apply pressure again for 30 more seconds. Repeating this process for about five minutes can ease insomnia.
What Are Some Other Techniques That Will Improve My Sleep Quality?
Acupuncture is just one of many techniques you can try to fall asleep more easily. The National Sleep Foundation has many tips for easing insomnia.
Following a regular sleeping schedule with a set bedtime and waking time will allow your body to adjust to a routine. Over time, this should help you fall asleep and stay asleep. You can also try incorporating a “relaxing ritual” into your nighttime routine. Avoid bright lights and electronic devices right before you go to sleep, and give yourself some time to unwind from your day before trying to fall asleep.
Some foods and substances will make it much more difficult for you to fall asleep. Avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol at night, and don’t smoke cigarettes right before bed. Try to eat dinner several hours before you go to sleep as many people have struggle falling asleep and staying asleep on an extremely full stomach. If you find yourself struggling to fall asleep, go to another room and stay occupied doing something else until you feel tired enough to fall asleep.
A recent study has shown that sleeping with a weighted blanket can lower levels of insomnia, anxiety and stress. Thought to be related to the concept of swaddling for infants, researchers have discovered that adults too can benefit from being wrapped up in a weighted blanket.
Everyone’s lifestyles and sleeping habits are different, so not all of these strategies will work for everyone. However, these techniques have helped many people handle their insomnia, and they will probably have some benefit for you as well.
Learn How to Detox Using The LV3 Acupuncture Point
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