Understand Snoring: Why It Happens and How to Solve It
Snoring can strain relationships, but understanding its root causes helps you manage it effectively. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), snoring often stems from spleen deficiency, phlegm accumulation, or blocked airways.
The spleen, responsible for transforming food into energy, weakens from poor diet or habits. This creates excess moisture, which turns to phlegm and obstructs breathing.
Similarly, weak lung energy or relaxed airways during sleep can lead to snoring.
Eat Smarter: Foods That Clear Phlegm and Reduce Snoring
Diet plays a huge role in snoring relief. Avoid heavy, oily, or sweet foods that create phlegm.
Instead, opt for phlegm-reducing ingredients like yam, lotus seeds, and coix seeds (also called Job’s tears). These foods support the spleen and help reduce airway blockages.
Include them in soups or porridges for easy digestion. If you're unsure where to start, explore our Diet Therapy guide for balanced meal ideas.
Press to De-Stress: Acupoints That Open Airways
Acupressure is a simple way to improve breathing and reduce snoring. Focus on two key points: the Yingxiang point (beside your nostrils) and the Zusanli point (outer lower leg).
Massaging these daily for 5 minutes can help open nasal passages and improve airflow. Think of it as a quick, natural fix.
Learn more about these points in our Acupoints & Meridians section.
Side Sleep to Breathe: The Anti-Snoring Position
Your sleeping position matters. TCM suggests side-sleeping, which prevents airway collapse, especially for those with phlegm congestion.
Avoid lying on your back, as it worsens snoring. Pair this with weight management—losing even 10% of excess weight reduces airway obstruction.
Strengthen Bonds: Support Each Other Through Snoring Issues
Snoring isn’t just a health issue; it’s also a relationship challenge. Instead of blaming your partner, focus on solutions together.
Use earplugs for short-term relief while working on TCM-based adjustments. Open communication and shared efforts foster harmony.
Check out our Healthy Living tips to promote overall wellness for both partners.
Boost Energy: TCM Herbs That Target Root Causes
For chronic snoring, herbal remedies like the Er Chen Tang formula (containing Chen Pi and Ban Xia) may help. These herbs strengthen the spleen, reduce phlegm, and clear blockages.
Always consult a licensed practitioner before use. For more herbal options, visit our Famous Herbal Formulas page.
One-Try Solutions: Snoring Relief Made Simple
If snoring persists, quick self-tests and remedies can help. For example:
- If your partner snores after heavy meals: Encourage lighter dinners with phlegm-reducing ingredients like yam.
- If snoring worsens with nasal congestion: Massage Yingxiang for 5 minutes daily.
Consistency is key—these steps can improve health and relationships.