Insomnia and Vivid Dreams: A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

Insomnia with vivid dreams

Hello Dr.
Yan: Since I entered junior high school, I have been dreaming while sleeping, but it hasn't been as severe as it has been in the past year.
I wake up feeling very tired, especially after getting married (I got married in early January this year).
Not only am I experiencing more dreams, but I also have insomnia, and I feel exhausted every morning.
In mid-February, I was about ten weeks pregnant, but the baby had no heartbeat, and I had to terminate the pregnancy.
Has my insomnia and vivid dreaming worsened because of this? I have tried traditional Chinese medicine and bought herbal remedies, but there has been no improvement at all.
Now, I wake up every day with very clear dreams, and I also have a feeling of pressure and headaches.
What should I do? It’s really painful!

Xiao Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/07/01

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dreaming is a phenomenon that everyone experiences.
The thoughts and feelings we have during the day, as well as our inner reactions to external events—whether they are joyful, troubling, painful, or frustrating—are gradually released by the brain waves when we are relaxed at night and manifest in our dreams.
When a child is gone, a mother will naturally have many feelings about it.
However, each person's interpretation of events is different; some people can easily resolve their feelings, while others struggle to let go.
It’s uncertain what type of person you are and how significantly this situation affects you.
If you have something on your mind, it’s best to talk to a good friend or a trusted elder; otherwise, keeping it bottled up can be very distressing.
When there are concerns, sleep will inevitably be affected.
The saying "what you think about during the day, you dream about at night" is indeed true.
The issues of insomnia and vivid dreaming need to be addressed from both psychological and physical perspectives to find a resolution, with the psychological aspect being significantly more important.
I hope you recover soon, sleep well, feel good, and that everything goes smoothly and safely.

Reply Date: 2003/07/01

More Info

Insomnia and vivid dreams can be distressing experiences, and understanding them through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can provide valuable insights and potential solutions. In TCM, sleep disturbances, including insomnia and excessive dreaming, are often viewed as manifestations of underlying imbalances within the body, particularly involving the heart, spleen, and liver.

From your description, it seems that your insomnia and vivid dreams have intensified following significant life events, such as your marriage and the loss of your pregnancy. These experiences can lead to emotional distress, which is known to affect sleep quality. In TCM, emotions are closely linked to physical health, and unresolved emotional issues can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood in the body, leading to symptoms like insomnia and vivid dreaming.

The heart is considered the "emperor" of the organs in TCM and is closely associated with the mind and spirit (Shen). When the heart is not nourished properly, it can lead to anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia. The spleen plays a crucial role in producing blood, which nourishes the heart. If the spleen is weak, it may not produce enough blood, leading to a deficiency that can manifest as insomnia and vivid dreams. Additionally, the liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi and blood; if it becomes stagnant due to stress or emotional turmoil, it can lead to irritability and sleep disturbances.

In your case, the emotional impact of your pregnancy loss may have contributed to a disruption in your heart and spleen functions, leading to your current symptoms. It is essential to address both the emotional and physical aspects of your condition. Here are some TCM approaches that may help:
1. Herbal Medicine: TCM practitioners often prescribe herbal formulas tailored to individual needs. For insomnia and vivid dreams, formulas like "Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan" (Heavenly Emperor's Heart-Supplementing Pill) or "Gui Pi Tang" (Restore the Spleen Decoction) may be beneficial. These formulas aim to nourish the heart, calm the mind, and strengthen the spleen.

2. Acupuncture: Acupuncture can help restore balance in the body by promoting the smooth flow of Qi and blood. Specific acupuncture points may be targeted to calm the mind, alleviate stress, and improve sleep quality.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga can help manage stress and anxiety. Establishing a calming bedtime routine and creating a conducive sleep environment are also essential.

4. Dietary Considerations: A balanced diet that supports spleen health can be beneficial. Foods that are warm and nourishing, such as cooked grains, soups, and stews, can help strengthen the spleen and promote better sleep.

5. Emotional Support: Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional can be crucial in processing your emotions related to your pregnancy loss. Talking about your feelings can help alleviate emotional burdens that may be contributing to your sleep issues.

6. Mindfulness Practices: Engaging in mindfulness practices can help you stay grounded and reduce anxiety. Techniques such as journaling, mindfulness meditation, or even gentle walks in nature can provide emotional relief.

In conclusion, insomnia and vivid dreams can be complex issues influenced by emotional and physical factors. TCM offers a holistic approach to address these concerns by focusing on restoring balance within the body and mind. It is essential to work closely with a qualified TCM practitioner who can provide personalized treatment based on your specific symptoms and health history. Remember, healing takes time, and addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of your condition is key to achieving restful sleep and overall well-being.

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