Natural Cures for Insomnia |
Many people search for treatments of insomnia. It is becoming increasingly popular to try to find natural cures for insomnia.
This may be because of the increasing number of studies that show the safety and effectiveness of such treatments. There are a number of natural cures for insomnia available.
Acupuncture
Reports have shown that acupuncture when used to treat insomnia, is 90% effective. Acupuncture works by sending a number of complex signals to the brain, increasing serotonin levels and therefore, helping the individual relax and get a better night's sleep. An acupressure practitioner works with the same concepts and points as an acupuncture practitioner but stimulates the healing points with fingers instead of fine needles.
Chiropractic
No studies have been done to determine the effectiveness of chiropractic care with individuals suffering from insomnia. However, some chiropractors report that by manipulating the spine, it may have a relaxing effect on the nervous system. This may help the person relax and could promote sleep.
Massage and Physical Therapy
It's commonly known that massage promotes relaxation and a good sleep. Massage techniques are enhanced even more for curing insomnia when used in combination with essential oils. These may cause improved sleep quality, better mood, reduced anxiety and increased mental capacity. In one study, patients who received a massage with lavender essential oils were calmer and less anxious than those patients who just received massage alone.
Mind/Body Medicine
A number of behavioral techniques have proven useful in treating insomnia. These methods may be used alone or in combination with each other. They include:
- Sleep Diary
Keeping a daily record of how much one sleeps, how long it takes to fall asleep, the quality of sleep, how often one wakes up during the night, disruption of daytime behaviors, attempted treatments and if they worked, mood and stress level can help a person understand and hopefully, cure their insomnia.
- Stimulus Control Techniques
This method improves sleep by only spending time in bed sleeping. Activities such as reading in bed, watching television or other non-sleep related activities are avoided. Going to bed and waking at the same time each day is encouraged. Advocates of these techniques believe in going to bed only when sleepy and getting up from bed if sleep does not occur.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture is the most effective Chinese medicine in treating insomnia. But there are a number of different Chinese approaches that can be used: herbal remedies, qi gong or tai chi exercises.
Any of these natural cures for insomnia can be effective. It may take a few tries to find one that works for a certain individual as each individual is different and so, different approaches will work differently.
Help With Insomnia Tip #1
Insomnia is a sleeping disorder many people suffer from, but with a little effort, you can eliminate the most common factors for insomnia. Examine which variables contribute to your staying awake all night or cause you to wake up in the middle of the night. Work to change those factors and you'll sleep better for it. |
Help With Insomnia Tip #2
Lower the thermostat before you go to sleep. Numerous studies have shown that in a resting state, the body maintains a lower body temperature. Keeping your bedroom a few degrees cooler at night will promote more restful, sounder sleep. |
Help With Insomnia Tip #3
Try to sleep in complete darkness. Studies have shown that the greater the amount of light you are exposed to before sleeping, the earlier you will wake up. Sleeping with the lights on will disturb deep sleep and keep you from entering the most restful stages of the sleep cycle. |
Disclaimer: The content presented in this website is for information only and is no way intended to constitute or substitute for qualified professional medical guidance. All visitors are strongly recommended to consult with their health care provider for any questions or issues they may have. |
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