Unlocking the Secrets to Achieving Restful Sleep
Written on
Chapter 1: Understanding Sleep Planning
In preparation for my upcoming public discussion with Robert Roy Britt, a prominent science journalist and author of "Make Sleep Your Superpower," I’ve been diving into his book. Much like James Clear’s "Atomic Habits," it is filled with practical advice that’s easy to put into action. One standout suggestion that really changed my perspective is this: Treat your sleep schedule with the same importance as you would your workday or family vacation. Prioritize your sleep, and it will reward you immensely.
I meticulously arrange my children's bedtime routine: a bath, shea butter application, a soothing story—nothing frightening or too thrilling. (We’ve learned that diving into Harry Potter after book two is not advisable before bed.) Then come the prayers, hugs, kisses, fluffing of pillows, a sip of water, and sometimes a humidifier. Finally, it’s time to sleep.
As I absorbed Robert’s insights, I realized I should extend that same level of care to my own bedtime routine. It reminded me of my Aunt Galina from France, who always changed into her nightgown right after dinner. We children were also expected to don our pajamas promptly post-meal. During my stays at her home, we would enjoy a delightful fish stew followed by dessert, and by the time we felt drowsy from playing, we were already ready for bed—simple and efficient.
As a young adult, I often questioned why my aunt would prepare for bed so early, but now, as a parent, it makes perfect sense. I find myself doing the same with my kids. But how do I adapt this for myself?
In my reading, I encountered a new term to encapsulate my Saturday morning struggle to leave bed: dysania. Robert notes, “Although there isn’t a formal medical term for the reluctance to rise from bed, it’s sometimes called ‘dysania.’ However, this isn't recognized as a medical condition, so it lacks specific symptoms and cannot be officially diagnosed.”
Fortunately, solutions do exist! I’m excited to discuss these insights with Robert during a public Twitter Spaces event on Friday, November 4. I hope you’ll join us to engage in conversation and share your thoughts. The book is a culmination of Robert’s work on Medium, so I plan to delve into his writing journey, the Medium community, effective sleep strategies, and the science behind sleep. Perhaps Robert’s experiences will motivate you as well.
If you’re eager to explore the first chapter, Robert has provided an excerpt for readers. There’s also a wealth of advice on managing Daylight Saving Time, a topic he recently addressed, which will be particularly relevant with the upcoming time change in the United States.
If you're interested in learning more about sleep planning, or if you have questions for Robert about his career or his book, please leave your inquiries below, and I’ll make sure to mention you during our discussion. Don’t forget, you can preorder the book as well. Looking forward to seeing you on Friday!