Healthy sleep is essential when it comes to having a happy, productive, and creative life. Insomnia affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause a range of symptoms, including difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently throughout the night, and feeling tired and groggy during the day.

Did you know that chronic sleep issues can dysregulate the immune system, increase cancer risk, hasten diabetes, and contribute to mental and emotional health issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD? Those suffering regular sleep loss are also involved in more auto accidents. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5663450/

Insomnia simply drains the joy out of life!

Sleep is essential for our body’s restoration and healing process. While we are asleep, our body is given the chance to repair itself. Our immune system produces cytokines, a type of protein that targets inflammation, infection, and stress response. This means that a healthy amount of sleep can help to reduce our risk of getting sick and fight off any illnesses faster.

Sleep also plays an important role in our mental health. Research has shown that a lack of sleep can contribute to the development of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Our brains use time during sleep to process and store information, which is essential for memory retention and cognitive function. https://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/need-sleep/whats-in-it-for-you/mood

In addition to aiding physical and mental health, healthy sleep is also strongly linked to weight management. Research suggests that people who sleep less than 7-8 hours per night are at an increased risk of becoming overweight or obese. This is because they have suppressed levels of hormones that control hunger, which can lead to overeating and the consumption of unhealthy foods.

And the metabolic challenges from not getting our ZZZs continue: even a single night of insomnia can send a non-diabetic individual into insulin resistance. One of the key benefits of healthy sleep is how it can help to combat issues such as insulin resistance, a condition that is directly linked to type 2 diabetes, and a whole host of other health problems.

Insulin resistance is a condition where the body becomes less sensitive to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. This can lead to high levels of glucose in the blood, which can lead to long-term issues full of complications like obesity and diabetes.

How can Awakenings Health help you get a great night’s sleep?

Acupuncture!

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including insomnia. Acupuncture involves the insertion of hair-thin needles into specific points on the body, which are believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities. When it comes to treating insomnia, acupuncture can help to regulate the release of certain hormones that are critical for normal sleep patterns. Additionally, acupuncture can stimulate the production of endorphins, which can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, leading to improved sleep. While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind how acupuncture works to treat insomnia, many people who have tried it report significant improvements in their sleep patterns. It is important to note that acupuncture should be performed by a licensed acupuncturist and as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. https://awakeningshealth.com/services/#acupuncture

Massage Therapy!

Massage therapy has been found to have numerous benefits for insomnia sufferers. The gentle pressure of the massage strokes can help to reduce tension and promote relaxation, which can help to improve sleep. Additionally, massage therapy has been shown to increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, which can lead to reduced anxiety and improved mood, both of which can contribute to better sleep. Finally, massage therapy can also help to increase circulation and oxygen flow, which can support overall physical and mental well-being, further promoting healthy sleep. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4521661/

Herbal therapy!

Chinese herbs have been used for centuries to help promote healthy sleep and treat insomnia. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes that insomnia occurs due to an imbalance in the body’s system, which can be addressed through the use of herbs. Chinese herbs such as Tuckahoe, Zizyphus, and Licorice root are believed to have sedative properties and can help to calm the mind and body, promoting more restful sleep. Herbal treatments should always be taken under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner to ensure their safety and efficacy. Additionally, it is important to recognize that herbal medicine often works best as a part of a more comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise alongside therapies like acupuncture and massage. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/acm.2018.0249#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20herbal%20formulae,ren%20(Ziziphi%20spinosae%20semen).

If you or someone you love is wrestling with getting the sleep they need to heal, then reach out to us! You can schedule here at our website, AwakeningsHealth.com, or give a call or text: 919.935.9832.

From all of us at Awakenings, nothing but Love to you–and a great night of slumber!