Sleep anxiety, paradoxical insomnia explained

In this episode of the Evolving Wellness Podcast, host Sarah Kleiner discusses the complexities of sleep and insomnia with sleep expert Molly Eastman. They explore the difficulties of maintaining sleep amidst life's stressors such as toddler care, shift work, and major life changes. Molly sheds light on the paradoxical relationship with sleep, particularly focusing on insomnia, and shares insights into cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) and acceptance commitment therapy (ACT) for insomnia. They discuss the impact of stress and thoughts on sleep quality, the importance of circadian rhythm and environmental factors, and ways to build a robust sleep skillset. The episode also covers the risks and considerations of sleep medications, the new findings in sleep science, and practical tips to reduce sleep anxiety. Sarah and Molly emphasize a balanced approach and provide resources for further support.

About Sleep is a Skill: 

Sleep Is a Skill is dedicated to helping people optimize sleep by treating it as a learnable, trainable skill—not a mystery or something left to chance. Founded by Mollie Eastman, the company combines science-backed sleep optimization, wearable data, lifestyle design, and personalized coaching to help individuals improve sleep quality, recovery, and overall performance. Their mission is to empower people to take control of their sleep so they can think clearer, feel better, and perform at their highest level—using practical tools, education, and measurable results rather than guesswork

Connect with Mollie:

www.sleepisaskill.com

www.instagram.com/mollie.eastman

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→ Bon Charge | Go to https://boncharge.com/products/demi-red-light-device?rfsn=8108115.26608d & use code SARAHKLEINER for 15% off storewide.

→ VivaRays | This episode is sponsored by VivaRays - VivaRays Blue - code YOGI https://vivarays.com/yogi

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Timestamp:

00:00 Navigating Life's Sleep Disruptions

01:37 Introduction to the Evolving Wellness Podcast

05:17 Meet Molly Eastman: Sleep Expert

06:39 Personal Sleep Struggles and Solutions

09:50 Understanding Insomnia and Sleep Anxiety

10:35 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI)

15:39 Acceptance Commitment Therapy for Insomnia (ACTI)

18:56 The Role of Red and Infrared Light in Sleep

22:31 The Impact of Sleep Aids and Medications

30:56 The Evolution of Sleep Studies

31:42 Glymphatic System and Brain Cleansing

32:43 Modern Lifestyle's Impact on Sleep

33:06 Circadian Rhythm Entrainment

34:24 Chronopharmacology and Sleep Medications

37:17 Blue Blockers and Circadian Rhythm

38:44 Challenges in Medical and Functional Medicine

41:37 The Importance of Nuance in Sleep Health

42:40 Building the Skillset of Sleep

50:18 High Performers and Sleep Optimization

56:47 Conclusion and Resources

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This video is not medical advice & as a supporter to you and your health journey - I encourage you to monitor your labs and work with a professional!

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