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How not to fall asleep

Writer: Sophie Bostock, PhD
Sophie Bostock, PhD
Feb 19, 2021
1 min read

This week, I've had the great privilege to feature on a couple of podcasts. Whenever I have a an event which could have a big audience, I get ridiculously nervous. It's worse when there's a video too - since I know big bags under my eyes from a poor night's sleep could be bad for my credibility!


So how do you sleep the night before an important day?


In this video I talk through the technique of paradoxical intention, from the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia toolkit. I've been practicing this over the years and even though I'm well aware that in the back of my mind I do want to sleep, it still seems to help most of the time.


Please give it a go, and let me know what you think. As with most sleep techniques, don't despair if it doesn't work the first time. It might take a few attempts to feel familiar, which will help you relax into it.



25 Comments


Jai Sharma
Jai Sharma
Oct 15

I came across the term India Bhawan while reading about notable buildings. It was interesting to see how these places are used for different purposes.


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Philipsalt
Sep 19

I prefer balanced discussions about DM First  rather than exaggerated opinions. Every game can have both positive and negative experiences, so discussing things honestly and based on personal experience makes the conversation much more useful.

Like

Jai Sharma
Jai Sharma
Sep 18

The Hindi Grammar information is presented in a simple way, which makes the basic rules easier to remember.

Like

Jai Sharma
Jai Sharma
Sep 18

I had been trying to understand Sangya Ki Paribhasha  from my notes, and this explanation made it much clearer.

Like

Space Waves
Space Waves
Sep 09

I found your insights on sleep habits quite enlightening, especially the section about how our environment influences our ability to relax. I’m curious—do you think emerging technologies, like those related to space waves, could enhance our sleep quality by creating optimal environments? What are your thoughts on that?

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HOW CAN I HELP?

Every few weeks I tackle a juicy sleep question in the Sleep to Peak newsletter. Sign up for monthly updates, or to get your question answered.

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If you'd like more information about speaking, coaching, or consulting, please get in touch! You can also reach Sophie at sophie@thesleepscientist.com.

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