In Chinese medicine, the liver is directly related to stress. When stressed, Qi becomes congested, and the liver bears the burden. “Hwa”, which means fire, then accumulates in the liver that causes restlessness in body and mind that prevents the patient from falling asleep. It is common among short-tempered people.
At times, they feel their heart palpitate, or pressure on their heart. They find it difficult control emotions, and easy to lose their temper. Such stress-induced insomnia is probably the most commonly observed type of sleep disorder. To alleviate it, TCM relieves the congested Qi in the liver to reduce the heat and bring peace of mind.
The heart manages the Qi in all other organs, and is in charge of our mental activities. Governing the mind is one of the heart’s roles. When the heart lacks blood, we feel restless.
The spleen on the other hand, is in charge of emotions such as anxiety and apprehension. If you are overly anxious and constantly worried, the Qi and Blood in heart and spleen become damaged, resulting in restless sleep and excessive dreaming without falling into deep sleep. Apart from the lack of deep sleep, such patients may also notice heart palpitations, forgetfulness, and digestive dysfunctions such as indigestion and diarrhoea.
The gallbladder is the organ which is responsible for decision-making. Decisiveness and determination are said to emanate from the gallbladder. If the gallbladder Qi is insufficient, the person may appear to lack courage, and become apprehensive and very indecisive. Such patients often find their mind meandering from thought to thought that prevents them from falling asleep.
Whilst treating the correctly identified cause is important, your daily habits may be what is preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep. Such habits should be reformed first so that our body recovers its natural rhythm and maintain good quality sleeps.
Treatment may include:
– Herbal Medicine
– Acupuncture + Saam Acupuncture
– King Moxibustion or Moxibustion
– Clinical Massage + Acupressure
– Electro Acupuncture or Laser Acupuncture or MPS Acupuncture or Ear Acupuncture