Sleep deprivation has become a common concern for most people, especially post covid world, However, if chronic, lack of sleep In addition to reducing your cognitive abilities, diabetes can exacerbate chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and depression. As such, many people turn to yoga and meditation for relief; But for many others, these measures may not work. So is there any other solution?
It turns out that many people are looking for answers to treatment. insomnia and improving sleep quality in an ancient Chinese medical system called acupuncture. That’s because acupuncture “may be one of the alternative methods of treating insomnia, with little side effects,” states a study published in the National Library of Medicine. But what exactly is it?
What is acupuncture?
acupuncture Dr Santosh Pandey, Acupuncture and Naturopathy Specialist, Rejua Energy Centre, Mumbai explained that this is a technique that involves inserting a needle into the skin to stimulate certain areas of the body. “According to traditional Chinese medicine, our bodies are made up of thousands of acupoints, which when balanced create vital energy. An imbalance blocks the flow of qi (the energy of being), and acupuncture is said to rebalance the body. goes Flow and restore physical functioning,” he said.
Agreeing, Dr. Anjali Sharma, Naturopathic Medicine and Acupuncturist, Founder of Shuddhi Naturopathy Clinic said that when needles When inserted into these specific points, they work to balance the energy or ‘chi’. “If any part of the body is in pain or diseased, the chi energy in that organ or organ becomes unbalanced. Selected points help to balance this energy,” she said.
Can it help with sleep?
as discussed, Sleep Important for good health and proper functioning of our body. However, it doesn’t come easily to everyone that results in difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or waking up too early. “These symptoms often occur regularly for weeks, for no apparent reason,” Dr. Pandey said.
Treatment options such as stress reduction techniques, better sleep hygieneExperts said that cognitive behavioral therapy, medication and herbal supplements, acupuncture are also commonly used to cure insomnia.
The effect of acupuncture on regulating melatonin and adenosine is important for harmonizing the body’s natural cycle. (Source: Pexels)
Calling it an “effective treatment for insomnia”, Dr Pandey said, “Acupuncture is earning recognition as a useful alternative treatment for people. insomnia Because it has fewer side effects than prescribed drugs for sleep and is generally readily available. Some commonly prescribed sedatives used to treat insomnia can make a person feel drowsy. Tired The next day, experience cognitive impairment, or become drug dependent.”
He cited research showing that acupuncture significantly improved sleep quality and duration compared to no treatment, medications, or spurious acupuncture. “Treatment and treatment of insomnia with a traditional method of acupuncture may also be more effective than individual treatment without acupuncture,” he said.
How does this happen?
Experts noted that melatonin, a hormone that induces Sleep, can be enhanced by acupuncture. Additionally, it increases blood flow to sleep-inducing brain regions, especially when done on the scalp.
“The Effect of Acupuncture on Control” melatonin And adenosine is important for harmonizing the body’s natural cycle. Melatonin is released at night to promote drowsiness and allow you to sleep, but adenosine is released throughout the day to keep us active,” Dr Sharma said.
He adds that acupuncture helps increase the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid and serotonin in the brain, which improves sleep quality. “In addition, the endocrine system is altered, resulting in a nocturnal increase in endogenous melatonin release. Acupuncture is also believed to normalize the sleep-wake cycle,” said the expert.
Things to know before an acupuncture session
Dr Sharma shared that acupuncture is a very safe practice and there are less chances of side effects when done by a qualified acupuncturist and naturopath. “It’s also safe during pregnancy,” she said, sharing some tips one should keep in mind.
Food should be taken two hours before the treatment.
* Wear loose-fitting clothes.
*avoid caffeine,
*Avoid heavy exercise before and after treatment.
*Take rest for at least 2-3 hours after the treatment.
*Preferably, avoid long drives and long hours screen time,
Who should avoid this?
Although it is generally a safe procedure, experts have advised caution for patients who suffer from bleeding disorders or who are on high blood thinners. Avoid “during the time immediately after surgery while the anesthesia is still in effect” pregnancyIn case of inflammatory conditions such as fever, redness and swelling, and also if the patient has pacemakers. Avoid during the menstrual cycle and at the site of surgery or injury,” she concluded.
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