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Writer's pictureSophie Bostock, PhD

Extreme Sleepwalking on ITV This Morning: Why, and what can you do about it?



"I Tie My Feet To The Bed To Stop Myself Sleepwalking" | This Morning


Sleepwalking, or somnabulism, is a parasomnia - one of the family of sleep disorders which involves unwelcome experiences or behaviours during sleep.


In sleepwalking, part of the brain remains in deep, slow wave sleep, whilst part of the brain appears to be in semi wakefulness. Episodes tend to occur in the first half of the night. Sleep walkers typically have their eyes open, and their movements may last up to 30 minutes. 


It's a myth that you should never wake a sleep walker! If they are a danger to themselves or others, you may need to wake them - just watch out because they will be disoriented and may feel under threat, so may lash out. If possible, gently shepherd them back to bed. 


Most parasomnias will become less frequent/severe if you protect sufficient time for good quality sleep, and tackle sources of stress. 


Huge thanks to Sarah Taylor for being willing to bravely share her story. You can watch the full interview with Sarah on ITV This Morning here: https://lnkd.in/eikcVKbn


If you'd like to find out more about how to sleep well, please join me for next week's webinar, at 7pm on Tuesday 25th June, where we'll be focusing on the Power of Light, and Darkness:


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