Question 1

It takes more than an hour to fall asleep (sleep-onset insomnia).

Accepted Answer

The sympathetic nervous system is overstimulated, preventing the brain from switching to the OFF state. Instead of trying to eliminate thoughts, you need treatment to calm the excited brain nerves (Anshin therapy).

Question 2

I fall asleep quickly but keep waking up in the early morning (sleep maintenance disorder).

Accepted Answer

You are unable to enter deep sleep (Non-REM) and only get shallow sleep. In Korean medicine, heat from yin deficiency or dampness accumulation disrupts sleep, or you may be waking up to urinate.

Question 3

I wake up at 4 AM and cannot fall back asleep.

Accepted Answer

This may be an early sign of depression or reduced melatonin due to aging. In Korean medicine, this is a state of exhausted vitality unable to sustain sleep (qi deficiency). Strengthening qi to extend sleep duration is needed.

Question 4

I want to quit sleeping pills — can I just stop taking them?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely do not stop abruptly. Worse insomnia (rebound insomnia) and withdrawal symptoms will follow. Using herbal medicine to build natural sleep ability while gradually reducing the dose over 2-4 weeks is the safe approach.

Question 5

I cannot sleep due to a crawling sensation in my legs (Restless Legs Syndrome).

Accepted Answer

The cause is iron deficiency or dopamine imbalance. In Korean medicine, this is seen as impaired blood circulation (blood deficiency) and weakened liver function. Formulas like Jakyakgamcho-tang that improve blood flow to the legs work well.

Question 6

Even one cup of coffee in the morning keeps me awake at night.

Accepted Answer

You have a constitution with reduced caffeine metabolism ability. The liver detox function is weak and the sympathetic nervous system is easily stimulated. Switch to alternatives like Solomon's seal tea or jujube tea.

Question 7

My sleep pattern is a mess because I work shifts.

Accepted Answer

Your biological clock is broken (circadian rhythm disorder). Do not try to force sleep — build up sleep pressure. After a night shift, wear sunglasses on the way home to block light, then close blackout curtains and sleep.

Question 8

Can you recommend teas that help with sleep?

Accepted Answer

Jujube tea and chrysanthemum tea are recommended. Jujube has natural sedative properties to ease anxiety, and chrysanthemum cools heat in the head. Warm milk or lettuce are also helpful.

Question 9

Every autumn I feel depressed and sleep all the time (seasonal).

Accepted Answer

Reduced sunlight lowers serotonin (the happiness hormone), causing Seasonal Affective Disorder. Unlike typical depression, the hallmarks are increased appetite and oversleeping. Getting sunlight outdoors during the day is essential.

Question 10

I cannot sleep because I am worried about not being able to sleep again tonight.

Accepted Answer

This is learned insomnia where the fear of insomnia creates insomnia. Re-train your brain that the bedroom is only for sleeping (stimulus control therapy). Do not lie in bed unless you are sleepy.

😴Insomnia