The Surprising Mistake That’s Ruining Your Sleep
Ever wake up in the middle of the night, staring at the ceiling, watching the minutes crawl by? Most of us think it’s harmless, but sleep experts warn that one common reaction could be sabotaging your sleep—and making insomnia worse.
When you suddenly awaken, it’s natural to try to force yourself back to sleep. Yet lying there, anxious and restless, often does the opposite. “Thinking about the fact that you’re not sleeping stimulates your mind and creates more anxiety,” says Dr. Fiona Barwick. The key isn’t trying harder—it’s doing less.
Staying in bed while wide awake teaches your brain to link your bed with wakefulness, not rest. Sleep specialist Luis F. Buenaver recommends leaving your bed and engaging in a quiet, calming activity until you feel sleepy again. Though it’s uncomfortable to leave the warmth of your blankets, this small step helps reset your body for future restorative sleep.
Avoid the temptation to scroll on your phone—blue light tricks your brain into thinking it’s daytime. Instead, read a physical book, meditate, or simply sit quietly. The goal is to calm your mind and signal to your body that rest, not stress, is coming.
@yourpositivehealth She’s saying studies show if you are awake from 10pm to 4am you are disrupting your circadian rhythm which leads to wider health problems – kristen_holmes Via @steven #health #sleep #science ♬ original sound – Your Positive Health
🔹 Conclusion
Next time you wake in the night, resist tossing, turning, or scrolling. Step away, relax, and let your body reset naturally. It may feel counterintuitive, but retraining your brain to associate your bed with sleep, not wakefulness, could be the simple change that restores your nights—and your energy.