Insomnia, when you can't sleep, what should you do?
Ah, insomnia – it's a concern almost everyone has experienced at some point, isn't it? These days, with staying up all night becoming commonplace, the saying 'sleep is the best medicine' feels almost meaningless. Especially for those of us who practice Korean Traditional Medicine (KTM), sleep is regarded as more than just rest; it's a crucial time for the body and mind to achieve harmony.
"I become more energetic at night – is that strange?"
No, not at all. In fact, it can be seen as our body and mind speaking different languages. The stress and tension accumulated during the day don't resolve, and it's only at night that the mind awakens. In Korean Traditional Medicine, this is described as an obstructed flow of 'Qi' (氣). It's akin to a blocked river that cannot flow properly.
"What should I do when I can't sleep?"
Before going to bed, there are several ways to calm your body and mind. You can relax your body with a warm foot bath or light stretching. It's also advisable to avoid caffeinated beverages in the evening. Especially in Korean Traditional Medicine, drinking a tea called 'Ansincha' (安神茶, calming tea) is a good method. It helps warm the body and soothe the mind before sleep.
"They say stress causes insomnia – is that true?"
Yes, stress is one of the major causes of insomnia. When our body experiences stress, it reacts according to the ancient 'fight or flight' instinct. Hormones like cortisol, released at this time, make the mind anxious and ultimately disrupt sleep. In Korean Traditional Medicine, this is described as an 'unstable Heart (心),' and treatment focuses on calming the mind and stabilizing 'Heart Qi' (心氣).
"How is insomnia treated in Korean Traditional Medicine?"
In Korean Traditional Medicine, insomnia is not merely viewed as 'the symptom of not being able to sleep.' Instead, the focus is on correcting the underlying imbalance between the body and mind. Methods such as acupuncture or herbal medicine prescriptions are used to ensure a smooth flow of the body's 'Qi' and to stabilize the 'Heart (心)'. Of course, personalized treatment is provided, taking into comprehensive consideration the patient's constitution, lifestyle, and emotional state.
I, too, once suffered from sleepless nights due to stress. The effects of acupuncture and herbal medicine I personally experienced then were truly amazing. It felt like something blocked inside my body had been cleared, bringing a refreshing sensation and a lightened mind. Through my own experience, I was able to feel the power of Korean Traditional Medicine once again. Insomnia is truly a frustrating problem, but please never struggle with it alone. Korean Traditional Medicine is ready to take your hand and find a path forward with you. Just like the stars in the night sky, your nights will shine brightly again.