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How Acupuncture Can Help Improve Sleep and Support Insomnia Relief

Updated: Oct 15

Discover how acupuncture in Santa Monica can naturally improve sleep, reduce insomnia, and restore balance. Learn the science behind acupuncture for sleep.


Sleep is the foundation of health. Yet, millions of people struggle with insomnia or poor sleep quality. Whether it’s trouble falling asleep, waking up often during the night, or feeling unrefreshed in the morning, disrupted sleep can affect every aspect of life - from mood and focus to immunity and skin health.


At Acupunctury, your Santa Monica acupuncture studio, we take a holistic approach to improving sleep. Acupuncture, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and supported by modern science, offers a safe and natural way to restore restful sleep patterns. Here’s how it works, why insomnia happens in the first place, and practical steps you can take to establish healthier sleep patterns.

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Why People Struggle with Sleep

Insomnia can show up in different ways, and the causes are often layered. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • Stress and Anxiety – Racing thoughts or an overactive nervous system can make it difficult to wind down.

  • Hormonal Shifts – Changes related to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid function may affect sleep.

  • Chronic Pain or Tension – Discomfort in the body can keep you awake or cause restless sleep.

  • Lifestyle Factors – Late-night screen use, irregular schedules, or caffeine intake can throw off your body clock.

  • Underlying Health Conditions – Sleep apnea, digestive disturbances, or neurological conditions may play a role.


From a TCM perspective, insomnia can be connected to imbalances such as Yin–Yang disharmony, Heart or Liver Qi stagnation, or deficiency patterns that disturb the “Shen” (mind/spirit).


How Acupuncture Supports Better Sleep (Western Medical Perspective)

Modern science has begun to explain what TCM practitioners have known for centuries: acupuncture positively influences the body’s regulatory systems. Studies suggest that acupuncture may improve sleep by:

  • Regulating the Nervous System – Acupuncture stimulates the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) branch of the nervous system, reducing stress hormones like cortisol and promoting relaxation.

  • Balancing Neurotransmitters – Research shows acupuncture can modulate serotonin and melatonin, two key chemicals that regulate sleep cycles.

  • Improving Blood Flow and Oxygenation – By increasing circulation, acupuncture helps calm the body and mind.

  • Reducing Pain and Inflammation – When pain is lessened, the body can more easily shift into restorative sleep.

  • Balances brain activity – Functional MRI studies show acupuncture modulates brain regions linked to arousal and sleep regulation.


These effects combine to help reset the body’s natural circadian rhythm, making it easier to both fall asleep and stay asleep. In Santa Monica, many of our acupuncture clients seeking better sleep notice improvements not just in rest, but also in energy, focus, and mood.


Tips for Creating Healthier Sleep Patterns

Acupuncture works best when paired with good sleep hygiene and consistent habits. Here are some tips you can begin today:

  1. Create a wind-down routine – Gentle stretching, meditation, or herbal tea can help signal to your body that it’s time for rest.

  2. Keep a consistent schedule – Go to bed and wake up at the same times every day - even on weekends.

  3. Limit screens before bed – The blue light from phones and TVs suppresses melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep.

  4. Support your environment – A cool, dark, quiet bedroom helps the body naturally shift into sleep.

  5. Consider gentle dietary shifts – Avoid caffeine late in the day and opt for light, balanced evening meals.

  6. Seek acupuncture regularly – A series of treatments allows your body to gradually reestablish healthy sleep cycles, with each session tailored to your unique presentation.


The Takeaway

Acupuncture offers a holistic and evidence-supported approach to addressing insomnia and sleep disturbances. By reducing stress, balancing the nervous system, and supporting overall health, it can help restore deep, restorative rest. When combined with consistent sleep practices, many people find lasting improvements in both sleep quality and overall well-being.



📞 Call/Text: (424) 252-1210

🌐 Website: www.acupuncturyla.com

🌐 Direct Booking Link: Acupunctury via JaneApp

📱 Instagram: @acupunctury

📍 Address: 1150 Yale St, Suite 10, Santa Monica, CA 90403



Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Each individual is unique, and acupuncture treatments are always tailored to the person’s specific needs. If you are experiencing chronic insomnia or another health concern, please consult a licensed healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of care.

 
 
 

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