Insomnia and Acupuncture: Deepen Your Approach to a Restful Night
Insomnia disrupts not just sleep but overall well-being. Daylight Savings has me thinking about this! A recent article in Business Insider from March of 2025 reports some startling statistics associated with various health and safety concerns, particularly during the transition period after advancing the clock ahead. Heart attacks and strokes are increased 24% and 8% respectively. It is also reported that fatal car accidents increase 6% in the week following the time change. Daylight Savings highlights this one hour loss upon everyone in the community but it makes me wonder…what are the effects for the 25% of Americans who experience acute insomnia each year?
In Chinese medicine, insomnia is seen as an imbalance preventing the body and mind from fully resting. Rather than simply masking symptoms, acupuncture works to restore harmony, allowing sleep to come naturally and deeply.From a Classical perspective, insomnia is often linked to a restless Shen—the Spirit housed in the Heart. When the body’s vital substances, such as Blood and Yin, are deficient or obstructed, the Shen cannot settle, leading to difficulty falling or staying asleep. Rather than just treating symptoms, Classical Acupuncture seeks to restore harmony by identifying the underlying root cause—whether its emotional disturbances, digestive imbalances, or unregulated Qi flow.
Treatment involves precise needling techniques based on ancient channel theory, guiding the body back into alignment. But acupuncture alone is not enough. Lifestyle adjustments play a crucial role in helping the Shen anchor at night. Getting sunlight exposure in the daytime, dimming lights in the evening, reducing overstimulation/screens before bed, mindful eating, and engaging in calming practices like breathwork or meditation can significantly enhance results.
By integrating Classical Acupuncture with conscious lifestyle choices, sleep is no longer a struggle but a natural return to balance. If insomnia persists, it’s a sign that deeper work is needed—something Classical Acupuncture is uniquely designed to address.
Are you ready to restore your sleep? Book a session today and experience true rest.