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Holistic Treatment for Insomnia at Five Journeys

Insomnia Treatment

Insomnia is more than just a tough night’s sleep; it’s a persistent struggle to fall or stay asleep, often triggered by stress, anxiety, or unhealthy sleep habits. When insomnia sets in, it disrupts your body’s natural rhythm, leading to hormonal imbalances that can affect your health. Over time, this can result in serious issues like heart problems, weakened immunity, and cognitive struggles. Seeking insomnia treatment is essential for breaking this cycle and restoring balance. Exploring natural ways to fall asleep can be a key part of finding effective relief and improving your overall well-being.

Importance of Early Insomnia Treatment

Addressing insomnia early is crucial to prevent long-term health issues and disruptions to your daily life. Opting for a holistic treatment for insomnia allows you to tackle the problem comprehensively, improving sleep quality and addressing underlying causes like adrenal fatigue and cortisol imbalances. Early intervention can effectively manage symptoms, restore restful sleep, and prevent further complications. Seeking help with insomnia sooner rather than later can significantly enhance your overall well-being and quality of life.

How Insomnia Impacts Your Health

Insomnia can significantly impact your overall health and well-being, increasing your risk for various health problems. Understanding these potential consequences highlights the importance of seeking ways to help with insomnia and prioritize quality sleep.

Increased Risk of Heart Disease

Insomnia can increase the risk of heart disease by contributing to high blood pressure and inflammation in the body. Chronic lack of sleep affects heart health by disrupting the body’s natural repair processes. Seeking timely insomnia treatment and getting help with insomnia can reduce these risks and improve cardiovascular health.

Hypertension and Stroke Risks

Insomnia can lead to hypertension and stroke risks because it disrupts your body’s natural regulation of blood pressure and stress hormones. Prolonged lack of sleep can cause chronic inflammation and increased cardiovascular strain. Opting for insomnia treatment and exploring a holistic treatment for insomnia can help mitigate these risks and support better overall health.

Weakened Immune Response

Chronic sleep deprivation weakens the immune system by hindering the production of immune cells and hormones that fight infections. Studies have shown that sleep deficiency can lead to alterations in inflammatory markers. Addressing insomnia through holistic treatment can help restore your immune system’s strength and resilience, allowing your body to fight infections more effectively.

Increased Risk of Depression and Anxiety

Lack of sleep can lead to increased levels of stress hormones, which can heighten the risk of developing depression and anxiety. This is because stress hormones can interfere with the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. If you are concerned about the risk of developing anxiety or depression, it is important to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if you have insomnia and recommend a treatment plan that is right for you.

Weakened Immune Response

Chronic sleep deprivation weakens the immune system by hindering the production of immune cells and hormones that fight infections. Studies have shown that sleep deficiency can lead to alterations in inflammatory markers. Addressing insomnia through holistic treatment can help restore your immune system’s strength and resilience, allowing your body to fight infections more effectively.

Increased Risk of Depression and Anxiety

Lack of sleep can lead to increased levels of stress hormones, which can heighten the risk of developing depression and anxiety. This is because stress hormones can interfere with the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. If you are concerned about the risk of developing anxiety or depression, it is important to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if you have insomnia and recommend a treatment plan that is right for you.

Interested in Holistic Insomnia Treatment? Ask your provider or book a call with us!

How to Prevent Insomnia

While there isn’t a singular “cure for insomnia,” taking proactive steps and seeking appropriate treatment can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Here are some strategies that can help:

  • Establish a consistent sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
  • Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Wind down before bed with calming activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to soothing music.  
  • Optimize your sleep environment: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
  • Manage stress levels: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises.
  • Limit screen time before bed: The blue light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with sleep. Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime.

Remember, ways to treat insomnia early on are crucial for better sleep and overall health. Taking proactive steps and seeking appropriate treatment can significantly improve your emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life.

Insomnia Treatment

Holistic Approach to Insomnia

Five Journeys provides a comprehensive approach to insomnia treatment through a variety of specialized therapies:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) – This evidence-based holistic treatment for insomnia focuses on changing sleep-disrupting thoughts and behaviors. It helps individuals develop healthy sleep habits and improve their overall sleep patterns.
  • Acupuncture – Our resident doctor, Bernice Wong, MD, a board-certified Acupuncturist for Physicians, offers acupuncture as a natural way to fall asleep. By targeting specific acupuncture points, this therapy helps restore balance to the body’s energy, potentially improving sleep quality and reducing insomnia symptoms.
  • Nutritional Counseling – Our licensed Nutritionist, Julia Boisselle, MS, RD, LDN, CPT, provides personalized dietary advice to address factors affecting sleep. By tailoring a diet that supports your specific needs, Julia helps eliminate foods that may disrupt sleep and promotes nutrition that enhances restfulness.
  • Stress Management – This therapy includes mindfulness and relaxation techniques designed to lower stress levels. Effective stress management can significantly improve sleep quality by addressing the underlying stressors that often contribute to insomnia.

Together, these therapies offer a well-rounded approach to managing and overcoming insomnia, even in treatment-resistant insomnia, supporting both physical and mental well-being.

Why Begin Improving Your Health with Five Journeys?

Beginning your journey to improved health with Five Journeys offers a comprehensive approach that encompasses various aspects of wellness. Our commitment to optimal health and well-being is evident in our personalized and holistic approach to care. Here are some reasons why you should choose Five Journeys to improve your health:

Holistic Approach

At Five Journeys, we recognize that true wellness encompasses more than just physical health. We take a holistic approach that considers all aspects of your well-being, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.

Personalized Care

We understand that each individual is unique, and their health needs are different. That's why we tailor our services to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're seeking preventive care, managing chronic conditions, or optimizing your overall health, we provide personalized solutions that prioritize your well-being.

At Five Journeys, we recognize that the cure for insomnia isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our holistic approach blends evidence-based therapies with time-tested natural ways to help fall asleep, addressing the root causes of your sleeplessness. We empower you with tools to manage stress and cultivate relaxation, which is essential for restful sleep. Choosing Five Journeys in Boston and Newton isn’t just about treatment; it’s a journey towards a healthier, more balanced life where sleep comes naturally.

*Massachusetts law does not allow us to accept MassHealth & Medicaid. Other exceptions may apply.

Why we do, What we do...

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is comprehensive testing for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, helping clinicians accurately diagnose and treat these complex infections. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood, Urine, or Ticks

COST

may have a $200 copay

INSURANCE

Covered by most insurance.

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Galleri® is a multi-cancer early detection test, a blood test that screens for many of the deadliest cancers before they become symptomatic,1,2,3 including those with no recommended screening tests today. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home or in lab.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$999

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

3 x 4 Genetics DNA Test

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This DNA test analyzes a person’s genetic markers to provide insights into their health and wellness price. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Swab

COST

$299

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is a key tool for assessing the impact of long-term exposure to environmental chemicals. By quantitatively measuring 14 select metabolites, this test helps determine an individual’s toxic burden, offering essential data to guide targeted nutritional and detoxification interventions for improved health outcomes. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$129

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

The Hormone and Urinary Metabolites Assessment Profile (HuMapTM) provides a comprehensive overview of steroid hormones, their metabolites, and the efficiency of the enzymes that metabolize these hormones. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$199

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a dried urine test for comprehensive hormones to help providers solve complex patient cases. DUTCH is a group of validated tests that provide a complete evaluation of sex and adrenal hormones, including metabolites. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$300

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive stool test that relies on quantitative polymerase chain
reaction (qPCR) technology to detect parasites, bacteria, H. pylori, fungi, and more by targeting the specific DNA of the organisms tested. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$399

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive test that uses blood and urine to evaluate over 125 biomarkers. It provides recommendations for vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and digestive support. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood and Urine

COST

$179 – $439

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Genova’s SIBO Profiles are non-invasive breath tests which capture exhaled hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4) gases following patient ingestion of a lactulose solution to evaluate bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Breath

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

COST

$85-$225 depending on insurance coverage. 

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RealTime

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At Home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$699

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. Repeat test prices $249

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Nordic-Labratories

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the genetic profile for multiple health indicators. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood Spot

COST

$319

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

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IGX

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This company can test for lyme, babesia, bartonella and additional tick-borne illnesses. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

around $1600 (depends on panel selected)

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. May be reimbursed with PPO plans.
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Great-Plains

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$310

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
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Alletess

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates a wide range of environmental toxins that may be leading to harmful health effects.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$199

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins.
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Quest

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Blood work for blood count, urinalysis and vitamin levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

NOTES

You often have to fast for these tests-please check your providers notes.

COST

Depending on the test, deductible or copay may apply.

INSURANCE

Depends on insurance coverage, deductible or copay may apply.
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Great-Plains

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Glyphosate (“Round Up”) is a pesticide that is widely used and this test indicates the body’s levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$99 ($69 if performed with mycotoxins or environmental toxins).

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins or GPL Tox.
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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates many measures including micronutrients, antioxidants, minerals, detox, overview of gut function, omegas and toxic exposure. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$150 – $329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

INSTRUCTIONS

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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the gut function and indicates microbiome balance, overgrowth, infection, inflammation, parasites and digestive efficacy. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$179-$439 depending on insurance coverage.

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

No probiotics for one week.

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the full menstrual cycle, female hormones, and adrenal profile.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

COST

$160-$329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

NOTES

Must be off hormones in order to do the testing.
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Galaxy

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is specifically for a tick-borne illness called “Bartonella”.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

COST

$260

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
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Doctors-Data

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of potentially harmful heavy metals stored in the body.  Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

Testing: $79 x2 paid to Doctor’s Data
DMSA: $38 paid to Johnson’s Compounding Pharmacy

INSURANCE

Not covered by Insurance
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DiagnosTechs

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test measures saliva cortisol testing throughout the course of one day and informs us where there might be an adrenal imbalance.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Saliva

COST

$80

INSURANCE

No insurance coverage

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Alletess

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is designed to look at food sensitivities (IgG immune responses). It is available in both a 99 or 184 panel. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$129-238

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted