A Spirit at Rest: Treating Sleep disorders with Chinese Medicine

Course overview

According to the NIH (National Institute of Health), “Sleep loss and sleep disorders are among the most common yet frequently overlooked and readily treatable health problems. It is estimated that 50 to 70 million Americans chronically suffer from a disorder of sleep and wakefulness, hindering daily functioning and adversely affecting health and longevity. (NHLBI, 2003). Failure to recognize sleep problems not only precludes diagnosis and treatment—it also precludes the possibility of preventing grave public health consequences.” This course will cover both the TCM and biomedical understanding of the physiology of sleep. •Phases of sleep •The yin and yang of restorative sleep •The 5 spirits and their relationship to sleep •Sleep hygiene We will investigate the use of acupuncture and herbal formulations for the major pathologies of sleep including: •Insomnia •Parasomnias (sleep-walking, sleep-talking, sleep paralysis, night terrors) •Sleep apnea •Circadian rhythm disorders •Restless leg •Hypersomnia