How Massage Therapy Eases Insomnia
In today's fast-paced world, getting a good night's sleep can feel like a luxury. The stresses of daily life, coupled with the constant bombardment of screens and technology, can leave many of us tossing and turning into the wee hours of the morning. Amidst this struggle for rest, there's a soothing solution you may be surprised to hear: massage therapy. Before discussing how massage therapy can alleviate insomnia, it's essential to understand what insomnia is.
What is Insomnia?
Insomnia is a very common sleep disorder. With insomnia, you may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting good-quality sleep. This happens even if you have the time and the right environment to sleep well. Insomnia can get in the way of your daily activities and may make you feel sleepy during the day.
Chronic insomnia can have significant consequences on your physical and mental health, and even increase the risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
What causes Insomnia?
Insomnia is often caused by a variety of factors including; stress and anxiety, a poor sleeping environment such as an uncomfortable bed, or a bedroom that's too bright, noisy, hot or cold. Lifestyle factors can also be involved, such as jet lag, shift work, or drinking alcohol or caffeine before going to bed. Mental health conditions – such as depression and schizophrenia can also lead to insomnia.
What symptoms are associated with insomnia?
having a hard time falling asleep at night
waking up during the night
waking up too early
feeling tired or sleepy during the day
feeling cranky, depressed or anxious
having a hard time paying attention, focusing on tasks or remembering
making more errors or having more accidents
How can Massage Therapy help?
Massage can help! Massage helps to combat insomnia by increasing the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain. It is believed that the area of the brain that facilitates the body entering into deep sleep uses serotonin to communicate.
What type of massage is best for sleep?
The most effective type of massage to help combat insomnia would be Swedish massage. Swedish is the most popular in the Western world. It is gentle and involves using techniques like long strokes (effleurage), kneading and circular-type strokes to help your body relax.
The most common areas of the body or pressure points for sleep are:
Yin tang, above the bridge of the nose and between the eyes
An mian, on the neck behind the earlobes
KD1, located in the middle of the foot
KD3, just above the heel on the inside of the foot (also known as the Taixi)
LV3, on the foot where the big toe and next toe connect
Finding a Massage Therapist who Understands Insomnia
In addition to massage, adopting healthy sleep habits, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and optimizing your sleep environment, can further support your quest for restful nights.
Integrating massage therapy into your routine can be a powerful tool for combating insomnia. At Sarrica Physical Therapy & Wellness we offer professional massage sessions for insomnia sufferers. Consistency is key! Call us at 347-560-6920 or contact us here for an appointment.
