There are two types of acupuncturists: traditional and medical. A conventional acupuncturist spends three to four years studying the art of acupuncture. Medical acupuncturists are DOs and MDs who have completed additional training in the practice. Both can help patients with sleep issues. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture both maintain directories of licensed acupuncturists.
Acupuncture for Sleep Points
LV3 acupuncture point
One of the most common places to stimulate acupressure points for sleep is on the top of the foot, where the skin of the big toe meets the next toe. Using a firm and deep pressure on the LV3 point is said to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Acupuncture, on this point, is also effective for headaches and anxiety. However, this point is not appropriate for everyone. If you are not able to find the time to get your feet massaged, try a point that is on the top of your foot.
Another common acupuncture for sleep is the LV3 point, located on the inside of the foot, just above the heel. You can feel this point by measuring the width of your hand from the base of your finger to the top of your toes. Once you have located this point, you can apply firm pressure behind this bone with your fingers. You can try massaging this point for at least four to five seconds to see how it affects your sleep.
Mian acupuncture point
The Mian acupuncture point, located in the neck behind the lobes of each ear, is a common spot for insomniacs to be treated. This point is easily found and stimulated with your fingers. Massaging this point before going to bed can promote restful sleep. In addition to promoting sleep, this acupuncture point may also alleviate headaches and anxiety.
Whether you’re experiencing temporary insomnia or chronic insomnia, acupuncture can be a valuable tool in your fight against a restless night’s sleep. A skilled practitioner will use a comprehensive health history to determine what factors may be interfering with your sleep. Generally, acupuncture treatments should include other forms of therapy, such as yoga, meditation, or a combination of these.
LV4 acupuncture point
LV4 is the most commonly used acupuncture for sleep. It is also known as Kidney 6 or the “Shining Sea,” and it is known for its calming properties. This point is located on the inside of the wrist, below the little finger, and can help to reduce nightmares and nocturnal epileptic seizures. Pressing this point for a minute is also said to reduce irritability.
Another popular acupuncture point for sleep is the bubbling spring point.
Located on the inner leg, between the big toe and the next toe, it is associated with inducing labor. Massage this acupuncture point with firm pressure for five seconds each day. It is said to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and relieve pain. It has also been associated with pelvic disorders and menstrual cramps.
LV5 acupuncture poin
The LV5 acupuncture point for sleep is a very popular choice for treatment. This point can reduce nightmares and nocturnal epileptic seizures and relax the mind. It is located just below the internal malleolus. It is also known as Kidney 6 or Zhaohai. It is located on the inside of the foot. Acupuncture, on this point, is believed to improve digestion and sleep.
It is also known as the “sleep point” because it stimulates the arousal reflex, which is important for deep, restful sleep. There are several different acupuncture points for the brain, but sishencong (LV-1) and yintang (M-HN-3) are the most commonly used. In the Acupuncture Manual, sishencong is listed for each disease and disorder more than once. In the same article, yintang is also mentioned more than once.
