Sleep Onset Insomnia: Natural Ways to Fall Asleep Faster
Do you lie in bed for hours before finally drifting off? Sleep onset insomnia refers to the difficulty in initiating sleep, often due to psychological or physiological imbalances.
Common triggers include excessive screen time before bed, anxiety, irregular sleep schedules, or overconsumption of stimulants like caffeine. These factors disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm and interfere with melatonin production.
Traditional Chinese Medicine views sleep onset insomnia as a sign of Shen disturbance, often caused by Liver Yang rising or Heart Fire flaring. Herbal remedies such as Zhi Zi Chi Tang or Suan Zao Ren Tang help calm the mind and anchor floating Yang.
Establishing a wind-down routine is crucial for improving sleep latency. Practices such as meditation, journaling, or drinking calming herbal teas like chamomile or jujube seed can help prepare the body and mind for rest.
Acupuncture points such as Shenmen (HT7), Anmian, and Yintang can be stimulated to promote calm and ease the transition into sleep. These therapies not only improve sleep quality but also address the underlying causes of insomnia.
For lasting relief from sleep onset insomnia, explore personalized herbal consultations and acupuncture treatments at Phases Herbal Medicine, where natural solutions meet clinical expertise.