The Sleep Lab Stories

19 - Sleep hacks, and waking with light

The Sleep Lab Stories

Summary

Lesle Mitchell shares her personal experiences with sleep, particularly as someone living with narcolepsy, which leads to unexpected sleep episodes. She recounts a recent incident where she fell asleep on the couch and woke up disoriented, highlighting the confusion that can accompany abrupt awakenings. This theme of sleep's mystery resonates throughout the conversation, as she and her guest, Janelle, explore the complexities of sleep and its impact on daily life.

Janelle, a marketing administrator and Pilates instructor, discusses her own relationship with sleep, noting that while she generally sleeps well, she struggles with napping. The two delve into the biological aspects of sleep, questioning why such a fundamental function remains largely unexplored. They also touch on the importance of natural light in regulating sleep patterns, with Janelle sharing her experience of sleeping without curtains to align her circadian rhythm with daylight.

The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness about sleep habits and the potential benefits of tracking sleep patterns. Janelle expresses curiosity about sleep tracking methods, suggesting that understanding her sleep could help her maintain a healthy routine. The discussion concludes with reflections on the cyclical nature of sleep and the impact of seasonal changes on mood and energy levels, reinforcing the idea that sleep is a vital yet often overlooked aspect of well-being.

Show Notes

The Sleep Lab Stories chats with Janelle, a pro-sleeper who knows all about staying in tune with nature, sleeping without an alarm, the pros and cons of tracking sleep, and not napping.

This show was broadcast on OAR 105.4FM Dunedin - oar.org.nz and made thanks to the support of NZ on Air.

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