Excessive sleepiness during the day can be distressing, embarrassing, or even dangerous. Some individuals can fall asleep half way during a sentence and be completely unaware of this.

According to the theory of Chinese medicine, during night the Yin energy rises to our eyes and allows them to close. During the day Yang energy rises to our eyes to keep them open and our mind alert. Insomnia or excessive sleepiness occurs when there is an imbalance in the Yin and Yang going to the eyes. Acupuncture aims to regulate the Yin and Yang energies so that we are alert and awake during the day and are able to sleep during the night.

Many people wake up in the morning and do not feel refreshed. In the morning our 'Yang' energies are increasing and we should feel alert and be ready for activity. Despite sleeping well during the night many people feel 'groggy' in the morning. This is often caused by 'Damp' in our bodies.

'Damp' is a concept frequently used in Chinese medicine and there are many symptoms associated with 'Damp', depending on what part of our bodies is affected. We live in a Damp climate and a lot of our diet is 'Damp', and so it is only to be expected that people suffer from imbalances and illnesses characterised by ‘Dampness’. 'Damp' food refers to food that is difficult for our bodies to digest and so 'clogs up' our digestive system, or alternatively food that promotes the development of harmful bacteria in our digestive system which again clogs up our system.

Our sense organs need clear 'Yang' energy in order to function well. Our minds require clear 'Yang' energy so that our thought processes are clear and focused. A feeling of grogginess and drowsiness in the mornings can be caused by not enough clear Yang energy nourishing our minds and sense organs (ears, ears, nose, etc.). Dampness obstructs clear Yang and prevents it from reaching our minds, resulting in poor concentration and a 'muzzy head'. There are other reasons for Dampness, but diet is the main one. Our dietary routines, e.g. regularity of eating, allowing time to eat properly, etc., are also very important.