Good Insomnia?

Could insomnia actually be good for you?

We’re told over and over how important a good night’s sleep is – but according to Walter A. Brown, professor of psychiatry and human behavior – insomnia is getting a bad rap. He says it’s perfectly normal for many human adults to wake up in the middle of the night. People who do are considered biphasic – and there are some benefits to that. Those who wake in the middle of the night and then go back to sleep usually have at least two cycles of REM sleep which encourages dreaming, self-awareness and well-being. Some biphasic people even welcome the gift of extra time in between their two sleeps. Quiet time in the middle of the night can be a great opportunity for productive contemplation or to get something done.

If you are naturally biphasic, Dr. Brown suggests you go to bed a little earlier to accommodate that awake break you’ll have between your two sleeps tonight.