Boundless Life 6 Hours Of Sleep Per Night Is OK??? Plus How To Sleep Like A Caveman (Wisdom From Our Ancestors For A Better Night's Sleep!) With Dr. Merijn van de Laar
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Aug 21, 2025 
In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Merijn van de Laar, a Dutch sleep scientist and author of 'How to Sleep Like a Caveman,' unpacks the secrets of sleep rooted in our evolutionary past. He delves into prehistoric sleep patterns, highlighting the benefits of natural bedding and dedicated sleep spaces. The concept of 'sleep divorce' is explored, along with its surprising impact on relationships. Dr. van de Laar also shares actionable tips for enhancing sleep quality through ancestral wisdom, including the importance of light therapy and relaxation techniques.
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Ancestral Sleep Was Environment-Driven
- Traditional tribes slept on natural schedules tied to light and temperature, not modern heated/lighted bedrooms.
- Contemporary hunter-gatherer data help infer ancestral sleep patterns for our species.
Hypnic Jerks As Tree-Safety Reflex
- Hypnic jerks may be evolutionary remnants to prevent falling from trees during sleep transitions.
- The twitching and falling sensation likely served a survival function in arboreal ancestors.
Negotiate Sleep Arrangements Openly
- Prioritize sleep quality over sleeping together if partner disruptions occur; discuss solutions openly.
- Consider scheduled separate nights to preserve relationship and individual sleep health.
