Matt and Dr. Eti Ben Simone are back again today to answer even more of your brilliant sleep questions! They begin by discussing smartphones, noting that the direct EMF impact on brainwaves is debatable, but that psychological activation and blue light are known disruptors. Moving onto naps, Matt explains longer ones can cause "sleep inertia," while short naps (20 mins) can be beneficial, unless insomnia is present.

They then examine the full moon's debated effect on sleep, and how it is possibly obscured by modern lighting. Sleep paralysis is then explained as consciousness returning before REM sleep's muscle atonia ends, while "hypnic jerks" (jolts while falling asleep) are described as the brain misinterpreting muscle relaxation as falling. Finally, they explain that waking with an "earworm" is linked to memory consolidation and active music-processing brain areas during REM sleep.

Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.

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As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt or Eti:

Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat,

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299

Eti: X @etoosh, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eti_bensimon/, or email at etoosh@gmail.com

Matt takes the opportunity this week to explore the perplexing sleep phenomenon of night terrors (sleep terrors). Matt clarifies that these are distinct from nightmares, defining them as parasomnias arising from abrupt arousals out of deep Non-REM sleep, not REM sleep where dreaming occurs. He details the often dramatic symptoms – intense fear, screaming, sweating, rapid breathing, confusion, sometimes thrashing or sleepwalking – emphasizing the typical lack of memory of the event afterward. Matt discusses prevalence, noting night terrors primarily affect children (1-6%, peaking ages 3-5) and are usually outgrown, while adult cases (<1%) are rarer and often linked to other factors.

Our host delves into the multifactorial causes, including potential genetic predispositions, stress, sleep deprivation, and, in adults, comorbid conditions like anxiety or sleep apnea, as well as alcohol use. He contrasts the impact on children versus adults and notes that diagnosis involves history and observation, sometimes supplemented by polysomnography (sleep studies). Management strategies discussed include optimizing sleep hygiene, managing stress (mentioning CBT-I for related anxiety), scheduled awakenings, and, rarely, medication as a last resort. Matt concludes by touching on ongoing research into the underlying mechanisms and potential future treatments.

Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.

One of our sponsors this week is the biochemical electrolyte drink company LMNT, and they are very kindly offering eight free sample packs when you purchase any one of their orders at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. LMNT is an electrolyte sports drink that I can get behind - it's created from the basis of science, and it has no sugar, no coloring, and no artificial ingredients – all qualities that are so important to maintaining your blood biochemical balance. If you want to give LMNT a try, just head on over to drinklmnt.com/mattwalker and get your eight free samples with your first purchase.

Matt will be the first to tell you that launching his sleep-related merchandise sales was incredibly smooth, thanks to our new sponsor Shopify and their integrated sales and inventory system. And now, just for you, Shopify is generously offering an exclusive trial at shopify.com/mattwalker. Whether it's online or in-person sales, Shopify simplifies it all. So, be sure to stop in at shopify.com/mattwalker to start your exclusive journey now!

As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt on Instagram.

Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker or on X @sleepdiplomat

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299

Embark on a celestial journey tonight as Matt guides you through the vast expanse of the night sky in this soothing sleep story. Prepare to travel amongst the stars, exploring the constellations that have captivated humanity for millennia. Imagine yourself lying comfortably beneath the heavens on a warm evening, the stars twinkling like distant fireflies. Feel the gentle night air as you connect with the awe and wonder felt by ancient civilizations who gazed upon these same cosmic patterns, weaving myths and legends into the very fabric of the universe.

Allow the gentle cadence of Matt's voice and the imagery of the endless cosmos to draw you into a state of profound relaxation. Give yourself permission to release the burdens of the day, letting go of worries and tension as you float in this serene space. Feel the calming influence of the distant stars, their steady light washing over you like a soothing balm, reminding you of your place within the grand, beautiful mystery. Let the tranquility of the universe guide you effortlessly towards a deep, peaceful, and restorative night's sleep.

Tired of untrustworthy protein shakes? Show sponsor Puori prioritizes quality: hormone-free, GMO-free, and pesticide-free. Every batch is third-party tested for 200+ contaminants - you can even scan the QR code for lab results! Matt recommends the addictive dark chocolate flavor with 21g of protein. Ready to experience the Puori difference? Matt’s listeners get 20% off, so visit puori.com/mattwalker today!

Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat,

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299