Insomnia

As many of you know, I have had my fair share of sleeping issues. I hear from so many people their horror stories, being up all night, tossing and turning all night, ect. and I feel for you all. So today I want to give some easy (or not so easy) suggestions to help us all get those much desired zzzz's.

One of the most common things you hear about are essential oils. Lavender Oil is one of the most popular essential oils to help the body relax and it is a safe oil. Sprinkle a few drops on your pillow before going to bed or rub a few drops into the bottom of your feet. A few other oils that may work well (because not everyone likes lavender) are chamomile, cedarwood, and valerian.

Here is one out of the book "Chinese System of Food Cures" by Henry Lu. He suggests crushing an onion and putting it in a jar. Inhale the vapors through the nose while in bed. Normally you fall asleep in 15 minutes.

In homeopathic medicine there are various options. Nux Vomica is effective for insomnia as a result of coffee, alcohol or drug abuse. Nux Vomica is also used when there is mental strain. If attacks of anxiety and fear drive you out of bed, try Arsenicum. Coffea is best used when the mind is overactive. Arnica is helpful if you have overextended yourself physically or mentally and now feel to tired to fall asleep. Lastly, Chamomilla is good for cases of extreme irritability, physical pains or addiction to sedatives.

Another thing we can do for ourselves or have a loved one do is acupressure. Two common points used for insomnia are Kidney 6 and Bladder 62. Massage and press these 2 points together on both sides to help the body relax and promote sleep. Holding Heart 7 for a minute on both sides as well as Pericardium 6 can help. Press and massage into the points to stimulate each point for about a minute or two.

Lastly, when these things don't help, it may be necessary to seek professional help. You may choose to see a MD but I would also suggest talking to a licensed acupuncturist/herbalist and you may also get relief from receiving bodywork. If you read past posts on this blog, you will see how getting acupuncture and taking herbs that were prescribed to me by a licensed professional has helped immensely. You do not need to suffer!

Sweet dreams!