Insomnia is a common sleep disorder marked by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. People may not feel refreshed due to too little sleep or poor quality sleep at night, which takes a toll on their ability to function during the day. It can lead to memory problem, daytime sleepiness, depression, irritability, anxiety, and an increased risk of heart disease and automobile related accidents.
 
People with trouble sleeping sometimes turn to sleeping pills. They may help, but also may lead to substance dependency or addiction if used regularly for an extended period. Chinese medicine is very good at soothing mind, calming spirit, and relaxing body. Acupuncture can harmonize Yin and Yang, regulate functional states of internal organs. Chinese herbs such as passionflower, valerian and scutellaria can be truly a miracle at these times. Oriental exercises including Qigong and Tai Ji can improve the free flow of Qi, restore and maintain vital energy’s rhythmical order between day and night.

Symptoms of insomnia include:

• Difficulty falling asleep, including difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position
• Sleeping for only short periods
• Being awake for much of the night
• Waking up too early
• Feeling unrefreshed upon waking

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