There’s a unique sense of rejuvenation that accompanies waking up after a restful night’s sleep. It brings a surge of vitality, preparing us to tackle the day ahead. Yet, an increasing number of individuals struggle with disrupted sleep patterns, whether it’s difficulty falling asleep or waking up frequently during the night after only brief slumber. These issues could potentially stem from disorders related to the autonomic nervous system.
In a recent episode of the “Health 1+1” program, Dr. Chen Junru, the director of Jinghe Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic, shed light on methods to regulate the autonomic nervous system through acupoint massage. He also discussed ancient Chinese medicinal remedies and herbal teas that can be incorporated into our daily dietary routines to aid in this endeavor.
The autonomic nervous system, an integral part of the peripheral nervous system, plays a pivotal role in governing involuntary physiological functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. It comprises two essential components: the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. When a person experiences excitement or anxiety, the sympathetic nervous system becomes active, leading to an increase in blood pressure, heart rate acceleration, and a halt in gastrointestinal peristalsis. Conversely, during moments of relaxation or rest, the parasympathetic nervous system takes charge, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure, slower heart rate, and the resumption of gastrointestinal motility. Striking a balance between these two systems ensures that individuals can be active when required and rest when necessary, thereby upholding the body’s normal functioning.
When the autonomic nervous system encounters issues, it can trigger a wide array of symptoms throughout the body. Aside from sleep disturbances like insomnia and early awakenings, individuals might experience a range of other signs. These can encompass feelings of anxiety, palpitations, chest constriction, shortness of breath, dizziness, and even tinnitus, among various others. Additionally, disruptions in the autonomic nervous system can manifest as problems within the gastrointestinal. And digestive systems, including conditions like gastroesophageal reflux. Furthermore, issues may extend to the skeletal and muscular systems, leading to symptoms like numbness in the hands and feet.
Who is susceptible to autonomic nervous system disorders? Dr. Chen emphasized that a person’s disposition profoundly influences their life and subsequently impacts their physical well-being. Individuals who exhibit high motivation, a strong sense of responsibility, or those who endure chronic stress are more prone to experiencing disrupted sleep and digestive issues. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) diagnosis, such individuals are often predisposed to what is termed “liver and qi stagnation.”
In TCM, the concept of “qi” refers to the vital energy flowing through the human body. And facilitating blood circulation and sustaining various physiological functions. Any obstruction in the flow of qi can lead to health problems. The liver plays a crucial role in the smooth movement of qi, but it is also particularly sensitive to emotions. When individuals undergo significant emotional stress. It can block the flow of liver energy, resulting in an overall stagnation of energy. unique sense of rejuvenation
Dr. Chen explained that a constitution characterized by liver. And qi stagnation can gradually evolve into a condition marked by qi stagnation and blood stasis over time. There is a profound connection between the flow of qi and blood circulation. If qi encounters obstacles, it can impede proper blood circulation, giving rise to what is referred to as “blood stasis.” For instance, certain female executives may be susceptible to uterine fibroids, which are indicative of qi stagnation and blood stasis. This chain of events often commences with stress, leading to sleep disturbances. And menstrual irregularities, which, if left unchecked, may ultimately develop into the formation of tumors over time.
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