Insomnia is difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep and is often considered chronic if it happens at least three nights per week for three months or longer. Most of us have experienced brief periods of insomnia (also called acute insomnia). Almost everyone knows what it feels like to still be awake staring at the ceiling and wishing for sleep-this can happen when you travel and experience jet lag, or when you're anxious and overwhelmed by life circumstances.

According to TCM theory, insomnia is associated with agitation of the shen (the spirit/mind). Shen is a form of qi. It is the "lightest", least substantial, and least stable form of qi. Shen plays a role in the higher mental functions associated with the intellect and the spiritual aspects of consciousness. Shen is light and subtle, therefore it must be anchored by the yin aspect of qi (jing) and the blood or else it is possible it could "float away". The shen must be calm at night and is housed by the heart during sleep. If this is disturbed it will result in disturbed sleep and insomnia.

If you have the Symptoms of Insomnia--Mental Disturbance, we would say herbal medicine is a safe and effective form of treatment. At TCM Window, we offer relaxing treatments and expert guidance through the whole process. We specialize in different kinds of chronic and difficult miscellaneous diseases, we offer the best possible care in a peaceful and welcoming environment. If you would want our expert to create a TCM diagnosis, please fill out the health form as requested.