Emma's Chinese Medicine Tips - March
Do not underestimate the restorative quality of sleep. The amount of sleep and the quality of the sleep reflects the state of the Mind (shen in Chinese Medicine). Lack of sleep, like too much stress or work, will deplete the Qi. Many patients I see are Qi deficient, they work hard, lead hectic lives cramming every activity into a tight 24hr day. I work on building their Qi through acupuncture and diet and also through helping them achieve a sound sleep.
* Don't eat late at night. Most of us still tend to have our meal only hours before bed, this can wreak havoc on the digestive system and prevent us from sleeping.
* Don't have serious discussions before bed; you may not be able to switch off.
* Don't work too late, especially not just before you go to sleep.
* Go to bed early - its better to go to sleep before feel tired.
* Keep the bedroom dark
* Only drink coffee between 10-11 am
* Reduce activities that are stimulating; don't use computer, ipad, mobile phone and TV's in bedroom.
* Massage your feet or better still get someone else to massage them, paying particular attention to Kidney 1 on the sole of the foot. In the crease in the middle of the ball of the foot, at the colour change between the ball and the sole.
