Insomnia | La Clinique Naturelle | Your accompaniments

Difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night, waking up too early, or not getting restful sleep can affect your energy levels, mood, and concentration throughout the day.

At La Clinique Naturelle in Geneva, we offer a variety of complementary therapies to promote relaxation, help manage stress related to sleep, and support a healthy lifestyle. Depending on your situation, one or more approaches may be recommended, always in conjunction with medical care when necessary.

If the symptoms persist, have a significant impact, or are accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended that you seek medical advice.

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How can sleep disorders manifest themselves?

Challenges vary from person to person and may change over time.

These may include, among other things:

difficulty falling asleep or taking a long time to fall asleep;
frequent awakenings during the night;
waking up very early and being unable to fall back asleep;
light or non-restorative sleep;
fatigue or drowsiness during the day;
difficulty concentrating or remembering things;
irritability or increased emotional sensitivity;
anxiety about bedtime or a fear of not being able to sleep;
a decline in motivation or daily performance.

When should you see a doctor?

It is advisable to consult a doctor if your sleep problems are persistent, recurring, significantly affecting your daily life, or causing you concern. An evaluation can help identify whether the cause is medical, psychological, medication-related, or another sleep disorder.

Be sure to check this, especially if:

you feel very sleepy during the day or are at risk of falling asleep at the wheel;
people around you notice loud snoring, pauses in breathing, or choking episodes at night;
you feel an irresistible urge to move your legs in the evening;
the difficulties are accompanied by pain, palpitations, unexplained weight change, or other symptoms;
your mood is getting worse, you're feeling depressed, or you're having dark thoughts;
You regularly take sleeping pills or would like to change your treatment.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, acute distress, or an immediate threat to your safety, seek emergency medical help.

What are some possible causes of sleep disturbances?

Sleep depends on many physical, psychological, environmental, and behavioral factors . A period of stress can lead to a few bad nights of sleep, but habits, illness, or anxiety about not sleeping can then perpetuate the problem.

Sleep disorders can be caused by, among other things:

stress, anxiety, or ruminations;
a major life change, a bereavement, or an emotionally difficult time;
irregular schedules, night shifts, or jet lag;
late-night exposure to screens or light;
the consumption of caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol;
pain, digestive problems, or certain hormonal changes;
severe snoring, breathing pauses, or restless legs syndrome;
certain medications or health conditions;
a sleeping environment that is noisy, bright, too hot, or uncomfortable.

There isn't always a single cause. Several factors can combine to create a vicious cycle in which fatigue, anxiety, and the struggle to fall asleep gradually perpetuate the problem.

Our Approach at Clinique Naturelle

Every situation is different. Two people facing a similar situation may experience it very differently and may not have the same needs.

That is why we always prioritize personalized care. Depending on your situation, one or more complementary therapies may be recommended, and, when appropriate, several therapists may work together to provide you with a comprehensive care plan, always in conjunction with conventional medicine.

We're here to listen to you

We take the time to understand your situation.

We analyze your situation

Your symptoms, your lifestyle, and your goals.

We provide personalized support

One or more therapies, depending on your needs.

Therapists can collaborate

When applicable.

We tailor your care plan

Depending on your progress.

Complementary therapies that may be part of your treatment plan:

1. Promote a better overall balance

These approaches aim to identify habits and individual factors that may influence sleep, and then to implement realistic adjustments to daily routines.

Naturopathy

To make changes to your overall lifestyle.

Sleep can be influenced by daily routines, diet, physical activity, exposure to light, stress, or certain evening habits. Naturopathy takes a holistic approach to these various factors.

Depending on your situation, your naturopath can help you implement personalized recommendations that are compatible with your lifestyle and any ongoing medical care you may be receiving.

Discover Naturopathy

Nutrition

To adjust your diet and meal schedule.

Meal times and composition, consumption of stimulants, and digestive discomfort can affect the ability to fall asleep or the quality of sleep.

Nutrition counseling can help you examine your habits, identify the factors that affect you, and develop a diet tailored to your situation.

Learn About Nutrition

TCM

To promote a better overall balance.

In traditional Chinese medicine, sleep disorders are addressed by taking the whole person into account. Based on the therapist’s assessment, acupuncture and, when indicated, Chinese herbal medicine may be recommended as part of a personalized treatment plan.

The choice of techniques depends on your situation, your medical history, and any precautions you need to take. Herbal medicine should always be supervised by a qualified professional, especially when combined with medical treatment.

Discover Traditional Chinese Medicine

2. Calm your mind and reestablish a routine that promotes sleep

When stress, ruminations, or anxiety about bedtime play a significant role, certain approaches can help develop relaxation techniques and change one’s relationship with sleep.

Sophrology

To learn how to relieve tension before bedtime.

Sophrology involves breathing, relaxation, and visualization exercises. It can help some people better recognize the signs of tension, prepare to calm down, and approach bedtime with greater serenity.

The exercises learned during a session are generally practiced between appointments to help incorporate them into daily life. Sophrology can be offered on its own or as part of a more comprehensive treatment plan.

Discover Sophrology

Psychology

To better understand the thoughts and emotions that fuel these difficulties.

Sleep disorders can be linked to stress, anxiety, a difficult life situation, or repetitive thoughts at bedtime. Psychological counseling provides a safe space where you can be heard, helping you better understand what’s going on and develop appropriate strategies.

Discover Psychology

Hypnosis

To work on certain automatic responses and promote relaxation.

Hypnosis may be recommended for certain individuals when stress, habits, or anxiety about going to bed contribute to sleep difficulties. It aims to tap into the person’s inner resources while in a specific state of concentration.

Discover Hypnosis

3. Reduce physical tension that interferes with rest

When physical tension, a feeling of stiffness, or certain discomforts make it difficult to fall asleep, manual therapy techniques can help promote relaxation and comfort.

Therapeutic Massage

To promote physical relaxation.

When your days are filled with tension in your neck, shoulders, or back, therapeutic massage can help relax those areas and provide a chance to recover.

It can be offered on its own or as a supplement to a program focused on stress, healthy living, or sleep habits.

Discover therapeutic massage

Foot Reflexology

To promote relaxation and stress relief.

Reflexology is a hands-on therapy based on the stimulation of reflex zones, primarily located on the feet. It can be used to promote relaxation, relieve certain tensions, and provide a moment of rest and relaxation.

Depending on your situation, it can complement other approaches as part of a personalized support plan.

Discover Reflexology

What Makes Our Support So Effective

Qualified and dedicated therapists,

ASCA- and/or RME-certified professionals who regularly consult with one another when appropriate to provide you with consistent support.

A wide variety of complementary therapies,

enabling us to develop a personalized support plan tailored to your specific challenges, needs, and progress.

An organization committed to a quality-focused approach,

with a common operating charter that ensures a rigorous working framework and respect for each therapist’s area of expertise.

A complementary approach to conventional medicine,

which is never a substitute for a medical diagnosis, follow-up, or treatment, and promotes coordinated care when appropriate.

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is the alteration of sleep quality and/or duration. In chronic cases, it is accompanied by daytime disturbances (fatigue, sleepiness, concentration and mood disorders, etc.).

It is one of the main sleep disorders, including parasomnia (sleepwalking, night terrors), hypersomnia (long sleep times and/or excessive daytime sleepiness) and circadian rhythm disorders (sleep-wake rhythms out of sync with light).

According to the Swiss Health Observatory, around 1/3 of adults suffer from sleep disorders, and 10% of adults resort to taking medication (occasionally or daily).

Insomnia can be primary or secondary:

Primary: insomnia is the disease (not the effect of a disease)
Secondary: insomnia is a symptom of a pathology

Many causes can disrupt sleep: stress, acute or chronic illness, chemicals, night-time working hours, diet, connected lifestyles...

Insomnia can be occasional or chronic.

Occasional insomnia

It is temporary and can be due to a number of factors which, once identified and optimized, will help you get back to sleep.

Chronic insomnia

It's a long-lasting condition, often the result of a vicious circle linked to bedtime anxiety (the fear of not being able to sleep and not recovering the energy to face the next day).

Why does sleep affect our general condition?

Sleep is a modified state of consciousness that conditions the body's physical and mental recovery. It is therefore essential for good health. It enables us to replenish our energy stores, produce growth hormones, regulate our blood sugar levels, eliminate waste from our bodies, stimulate our immune defenses, regulate our stress and mood and optimize our memory.

When our rhythm is disturbed, our body is weakened. Beyond the feeling of fatigue, we can note :

reduced psychomotor performance
reduced judgment
concentration difficulties
memory problems
reduced creativity
greater irritability
anxiety
weight gain
vision problems

Not to mention that sleep deprivation can also lead to drowsiness, which is responsible for many accidents on the road and at work.

If sleep deprivation persists over the long term, the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity and even depression increases.

FAQ – Sleep and Insomnia

Should you change your lifestyle?Alizée VincentJune 18, 2026, 5:55:40 PM +02:00

Should you change your lifestyle?

Yes, simple adjustments (rhythm, diet, screen time, stress) can already significantly enhance the effects of treatment.

Is chronic fatigue related to sleep?Alizée VincentJune 18, 2026, 5:55:21 PM +02:00

Is chronic fatigue related to sleep?

Often, yes, but it can also have other causes. A medical evaluation can help identify the causes.

How long does it take to see results?Alizée VincentJune 18, 2026, 5:53:13 PM +02:00

How long does it take to see results?

Some people sleep better after just a few sessions, but regular follow-up improves sleep stability.

Can insomnia be treated naturally?Alizée VincentJune 18, 2026, 5:52:54 PM +02:00

Can insomnia be treated naturally?

Yes, by regulating the nervous system and restoring balance to biological rhythms, sleep can gradually improve.

How do you treat sleep disorders?Alizée VincentJune 18, 2026, 5:52:06 PM +02:00

How do you treat sleep disorders?

We are looking into the possible causes: stress, mental overload, physical imbalances, or lifestyle habits.

Sources and Information

Sources and Medical Information

The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.

Sources consulted:
– Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), Sedatives and Sleep Aids for the Treatment of Chronic Sleep Disorders, updated January 9, 2025.
– French National Authority for Health (HAS), What Role Do Benzodiazepines Play in Insomnia?, July 2024.
– NHS, Insomnia.
– VA/DoD, Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Chronic Insomnia Disorder and Obstructive Sleep Apnea, 2025.

Last update to this page: August 10, 2026

Further information

Educational articles written by our therapists to help you better understand this topic and answer the most frequently asked questions:

Are the sessions covered by supplemental insurance?

Sessions may be partially reimbursed by certain supplemental insurance plans. However, coverage depends on your policy, the type of therapy you receive, and the therapist you choose.

Before your first appointment, we recommend that you contact your insurance provider directly and provide them with the following information:

the therapist's name;
the therapy in question.

The therapists at La Clinique Naturelle hold professional certifications that vary depending on their specialty, including accreditation from theASCA and/or the RME. However, these accreditations do not automatically guarantee reimbursement for sessions: only your insurance provider can confirm the exact terms of your coverage.

Do you have a question?

Contact our front desk

Are you unsure about a therapy?
Would you like to know how a session works, find out about rates and reimbursement from supplemental insurance, or get information about your treatment plan?

Our therapy coordinators are available Monday through Friday to answer your questions and provide guidance.

Call us

Would you like to be referred to the most appropriate therapy?

Free Career Assessment – 30 minutes

Are you dealing with a specific issue, or are you unsure which approach to take?

Take advantage of a free consultation with Marie-Anne Geiser, naturopath and founder of La Clinique Naturelle.

This consultation allows us to assess your situation, answer your questions, and, if necessary, develop a personalized treatment plan by referring you to the therapy or therapies best suited to your needs.

Request a Free Assessment

Sleep and Insomnia: Complementary Therapy Options in Geneva