Paradoxical Intention Therapy

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  • #37066
    Sydonia044
    ✘ Not a client

      I’m just wondering if anyone has tried this? It is basically halting any effort to sleep in order to stop worrying about sleep? I think that’s my main issue at the moment in terms of worrying about sleeping and the consequences. If anyone has tried this could you please elaborate? If you’re trying to stay awake when doing so in order to stop worrying do you just lie in bed with your eyes open or do you get up and do something you find relaxing until you feel “sleepy” again? I would like to try it as it makes sense to me to attempt to let go of the worrying, but unsure of the methods. Below is a link to some information.

      https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/think-act-be/201804/frustrated-you-cant-sleep-try-staying-awake-instead?fbclid=IwAR10DoHF5-euhhBm2bR0jQZs0Cb1vTEGJZdS1HGfYt5oDuz-GY9_cflLHPc

      #37079
      Kezia2
      ✘ Not a client

        I don’t think this would work for me if I had something on the next day. Trying to stay awake when you know you have to get up for work in the morning, and need to be reasonably awake all day, would stress me too much. Perhaps if I was on holiday it might work.

        #37130
        Martin Reed
        ★ Admin

          Ultimately, to practice this, all you do is go to bed and stay in bed with the express intention of staying awake. So, when you are in bed you try to keep your eyes open and try to avoid falling asleep for the entire night.

          In other words, instead of trying to sleep you are trying not to sleep — this prevents you from putting effort into sleep and/or getting mad/anxious/frustrated with yourself for not falling asleep. When this effort and pressure is removed, sleep can become a lot easier.

          If you are ready to stop struggling with insomnia you can enroll in the online insomnia coaching course right now! If you would prefer ongoing phone or video coaching calls as part of a powerful three month program that will help you reclaim your life from insomnia, consider applying for the Insomnia Mastery program.

          The content of this post is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, disorder, or medical condition. It should never replace any advice given to you by your physician or any other licensed healthcare provider. Insomnia Coach LLC offers coaching services only and does not provide therapy, counseling, medical advice, or medical treatment. All content is provided “as is” and without warranties, either express or implied.

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