NATURAL THERAPIES FOR INSOMNIA: NATUROPATHY

Naturopaths not only advise on nutrition but look at their patients’ whole lifestyle, including their working life and any anxieties causing particular stress, and will work with patients to deal with the problems underlying insomnia. Many naturopaths are also trained in osteopathy (described in the next section), which helps to relieve structural and muscular tensions and pain.

Sometimes called nature cure, naturopathy is one of the best established forms of natural and holistic medicine; it has had its followers in Britain since well before the Second World War. It is based on the principle that the body has its own restorative powers, and under the right conditions will heal itself. The right conditions for good health include nutrition, exercise, relaxation, a balanced and unstressed musculo-skeletal system, and a positive outlook on life. Treatment therefore consists chiefly of removing impediments to health rather than adding extras, although naturopaths may use some herbal and homoeopathic preparations as well as nutritional supplements when appropriate to individual needs.

Practitioners may advocate fasting, to rid the body of accumulated poisons — either a complete fast, or a few days on fruit or fruit juices. Fasting doesn’t suit everyone, and the naturopath will take your personal needs and system into account before recommending it. Hydrotherapy (water cure) is also traditionally associated with naturopathy, including treatments such as encouraging the circulation around arthritic joints by alternate applications of hot and cold water, or using sitz baths to improve the circulation in the abdominal area. More elaborate forms of hydrotherapy are applied at some health farms.

Naturopaths will also advise on appropriate exercise and relaxation techniques, and support you in making changes to your lifestyle.

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Anti-Depressants/Sleeping Aid