Mailbag: Ditch the “8 Straight” Sleep Myth
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted September 17, 2024
“I have a problem sleeping, mainly waking up in the middle of the night, and having trouble going back to sleep.”
Awake Again
Hi Awake,
You’re not alone. Millions find themselves staring at the ceiling in the wee hours, desperately willing sleep to come.
Countless folks are convinced they’re doing something wrong when they repeatedly wake up in the middle of the night.
But what if I told you this “problem” might not BE a problem?
Brace yourself because we’re about to turn everything you thought you knew about sleep upside down.
Recent studies reveal that between ONE-THIRD and ONE-HALF of all adults regularly wake up in the middle of the night.
That’s right, up to 50 percent of us are night wakers. Does that mean we’re all doing something wrong?
The answer might surprise you.
If you could dust off a bunch of 200-year-old diaries and read them, you’d discover something interesting…
Our ancestors would write about “first sleep” and “second sleep” as if it were the most natural thing in the world!
Because for them, it WAS.
Our ancestors didn’t see waking up at night as a problem. They used this time to read, pray, or even have sex. Then, they’d simply drift off into their “second sleep.”
Mind-blowing, right?
So, if you’re a chronic night waker, it might be time to flip the script. Instead of fighting it, why not embrace and plan for it?
If you know you’ll be up for a while during the night, let go of the “eight straight” myth and adjust your schedule. That might mean staying in bed for 10 hours to account for your wakeful periods.
This approach won’t work for everyone, but it could be a game-changer for many chronic night wakers. It’s about working with your body’s natural rhythms, not against them.
If you’re not ready to completely revolutionize your sleep schedule, there are still steps you can take to improve your sleep quality.
I often recommend my own patients try the following:
- Embrace the calm: Try soothing herbs like chamomile or valerian root. A warm cup of herbal tea before bed could be just what the doctor ordered.
- Focus on magnesium: This mineral is a sleep superstar. Found in foods like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens, it can help relax your body and mind.
- Sleepy-time rituals: Good sleep hygiene is crucial. Create a bedtime routine, keep your bedroom cool and dark, and limit screen time before bed.
- Mindful moments: If you wake up, try gentle breathing exercises or meditation to ease yourself back to sleep.
Remember, the goal isn’t to never wake up at night. It’s to feel rested and refreshed in the morning, whether you slept straight through or had a midnight interlude.
So, the next time you find yourself wide awake at 2 AM, take a deep breath. You’re not broken. You might just be following in the footsteps of your ancestors, embracing the natural rhythm of first and second sleep.
Sweet dreams… twice!
P.S. Simple light trick unlocks better sleep and mood.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
The Eat MORE, Weigh LESS “No Fad” Diet
Trying to shed those stubborn extra pounds? You’re not alone. Millions struggle with weight loss, often feeling frustrated by slow progress and disappointing results. Mainstream medicine’s solutions are either a drastic, dangerous surgery or risky heavy-duty medications. However, a new study has revealed a simple yet powerful strategy that can help you lose weight faster...
Is Your Love Life Normal? The Surprising Answer
There’s one question seniors whisper to me more than any other right before I leave the exam room. “Doc, what’s a healthy sex drive for a person my age?” They’re usually surprised by my answer. And you might be too… The truth is there is NO one-size-fits-all answer here. Your sex drive is like your...
Powerful Telomere Tamer Slows Aging NATURALLY
I’m always on the lookout for the next big breakthrough when it comes to anti-aging. But ironically, new research reveals that a powerful secret to slowing down the aging process has been hiding in plain sight for thousands of years. In fact, it’s been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. And now, it could...
MAILBAG: Powerful “7 and 7” Plan BOOSTS Brain Health
“How can I, without medication, stop cognitive impairment?” -Staying Sharp Hi Sharp, I’ve got fantastic news. There’s a TON you can do to stop your brain from sliding down the path to dementia. And tackling cognitive impairment without drugs is totally doable. Let’s explore some lifestyle tweaks and supplement hacks that can give your brain...
Cancer Trigger EXPOSED Leaving Scientists Stunned!
Aging is the biggest risk factor for cancer. That’s a given. But the question that’s kept researchers scratching their heads for decades is… why? Now, a groundbreaking new study from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai may have finally cracked the code. And the answer lies in a place you might not expect—your...
The Eye-Popping Solution to Slowing Vision Loss
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a sneaky vision thief, affecting nearly 20 million Americans 40 and older, eventually causing them to become blind. AMD’s “dry” form is particularly troublesome because there’s no effective treatment. Well, until NOW, that is. A groundbreaking new study is offering a ray of hope—and it’s an easy addition to your...
Strange Nose Symptom Signals Heart Trouble
Heart disease is a silent killer. It often lurks in the shadows, slowly damaging your cardiovascular system without any obvious signs or symptoms. By the time you realize something’s wrong, it may be too late. But exciting new research has given us a surprising way to help you spot heart trouble BEFORE it’s too late....
Could This Trio SLASH Memory Loss? [Research Says YES!]
Imagine if the key to maintaining a sharp mind as you age was as easy as 1,2,3. Well, according to a new study, it really could be that simple. In fact, scientists say three everyday foods you might already have in your kitchen could SLASH your risk of dementia by nearly 30 percent! The best...
The EXACT Age to Get Serious About Your Health
An old friend recently asked me at what age he should get serious about his health because he still felt good. I told him: “Buddy, that’s great that you’re feeling so good! But here’s the thing. There’s no “right age” to start caring about your health.” The best time is always NOW. And that’s no...
“Salad Solution” Slashes Depression Symptoms (FAST!)
They say misery loves company. But if you’re one of the millions battling depression, I’m betting you wouldn’t wish the condition on your worst enemy. When it comes to depression, mainstream medicine’s go-to solution is to prescribe a mood med. And while drugs might work for some, these heavy-duty meds often fail to do the...