The Healing Power of Acupuncture For Sleep Issues and Insomnia

Acupuncture has been essential to my holistic approach to health and well-being since 2009, when I graduated from Acupuncture College.

Whether it’s sleep troubles, stress, hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, or pain, acupuncture is a powerful, non-invasive tool that encourages the body to heal itself. And yes, despite the involvement of needles, it’s surprisingly relaxing! :)

Acupuncture is not just about the needles. It's a comprehensive system that includes herbs, massage, moxibustion, and nutrition. When it comes to addressing sleep issues like insomnia, anxiety, and hormonal changes, acupuncture is often the first therapy I reach for. It's a holistic approach that guides your body into a deeply relaxed state, opening the door to incredible healing.  

How Acupuncture Works (And Why It’s Amazing!)

Acupuncture creates balance while calming and restoring key systems in the body. Here’s how it can work its magic:

• Calming for Your Nervous System  

Acupuncture stimulates your body to produce neurotransmitters like serotonin, which helps improve sleep, lower anxiety, and ease stress. That sense of calm? It’s real, and it’s powerful.  

• Better Sleep  

Through a boost in melatonin production, acupuncture improves sleep quality. Since melatonin is also an antioxidant, you’re not just sleeping better but also giving your overall health a leg up.  

• Better Digestion is Better Health  

Acupuncture stimulates the digestive system, aiding in absorption and overall gut health. After all, as the old saying goes, “all diseases start in the gut.” If I had to pick one area to focus on for overall well-being, digestion would be it.  

• Hormonal Balance  

From estrogen to progesterone, acupuncture supports hormone regulation. This can make a huge difference for those dealing with symptoms of perimenopause or menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats.  

• Pain Relief  

The release of muscle tension, reduction in inflammation, and production of endorphins can make a world of difference when managing either acute or chronic pain. Ever leave a session feeling blissfully dazed? That’s what we like to call “acu land.”  

• Support for Sleep Apnea  

For those with mild to moderate sleep apnea, acupuncture strengthens the tongue muscle, reduces nasal congestion, and eases inflammation, often at the root of this issue.  

Wait, Do the Needles Hurt?

This is a question I hear all the time. It’s understandable—after all, needles don’t exactly sound relaxing at first glance.

But here’s the truth—while you may feel a quick sensation when the needle is inserted, it dissipates almost immediately. Most people describe the experience as completely painless. You'll be surprised at how comfortable and relaxing it can be.

And the best part? You’ll likely end up feeling so relaxed that you might even fall asleep on the table. Don’t be surprised if you feel lighter, more at ease, and ready to take on the rest of your day.

As someone who’s sensitive to needles, even I was hesitant at first. But acupuncture needles are nothing like the ones you imagine. They’re ultra-thin, and the process is incredibly gentle. I always make it a priority in my practice to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible.

What Can Acupuncture Treat?

The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture for treating over 40 different conditions. While my practice focuses primarily on sleep issues like insomnia and sleep apnea, acupuncture can address a wide range of concerns.  

Here’s a snapshot of what we often treat in conjunction with sleep-related issues:

• Sleep Disorders  

  • Insomnia  

  • Central & obstructive sleep apnea  

  • Restless leg syndrome  

  • Nightmares & night terrors  

  • TMJ & jaw clenching  

• Stress & Mental Health  

  • Anxiety  

  • Depression  

  • Panic attacks  

  • PTSD  

  • Chronic & acute stress  

• Physiological Symptoms  

  • Night sweats & hot flashes  

  • GERD, bloating & IBS  

  • Constipation & diarrhea  

  • Immune dysregulation  

  • Fatigue  

  • Thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto’s  

  • Gynecological concerns  

Heal your sleep with acupuncture and/or functional medicine

As you can see, acupuncture is a versatile and effective tool for addressing a range of issues, particularly when it comes to improving sleep and overall well-being.

If you’re curious about how acupuncture might fit into your personal journey towards better health, reach out, I am happy to help!

Visit the page for in person sessions, in Boulder, CO. If you are located elsewhere and would like to explore telehealth sessions for your sleep troubles, click here.

Check out my book, The Deep Blue Sleep—A Roadmap to Fall Asleep and Stay Asleep Naturally. This book provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the nervous system's role in sleep, strategies for improving sleep, and tips for reducing anxiety related to insomnia.

Available in Paperback, E-book, and Audiobook.