Can acupuncture help with sleep?

Did you know? Six adults out of ten in the UK suffers from sleeping disorders. Among the diverse causes, stress and long working hours have a lion share.

Stress: Acupuncture can help sleep by relaxing

For centuries, the Chinese have been using acupuncture to help people sleep better. Acupuncture can have a powerfully relaxing effect. When stress has been identified as the root of the problem then acupuncture for sleep can be part of the solution.

Emotional Problems:Acupuncture can calm the mind and promote sleep

Another cause for insomnia can be emotional problems such as anxiety and depression. Often you can hear hear acupuncturists use the expression ‘calm the mind’. The calming state of relaxation and well-being induced by acupuncture in general and by some specific points is favourable to stilling thoughts. For any emotional problem I recommend that the patient checks with their GP, however most will use acupuncture as a complement to the prescription given by their GP.

Pain: Acupuncture can temporary reduce pain

Pain can be a reason for insomnia and bad sleep. When one is in pain, it is quite difficult to find sleep. Even if a prescription pain killer is available, there is a limit to the permitted amount that can be used in a day. There are many theories as to why acupuncture can help reduce pain but the Chinese put it nicely saying ‘when there is free flow of Qi, there is no pain’.
Indeed, when sleeping disorders are involved, there is a relationship between them and acupuncture may help sleep and fight insomnia.