The Weekend University

Sleepwalking, Insomnia, Circadian Rhythms: The Incredible Science of Sleep — Dr. Guy Leschziner

Oct 16, 2025
Dr. Guy Leschziner, a leading neurologist and sleep specialist, dives into the science of sleep, revealing its vital roles in health and well-being. He discusses how studying extreme sleep behaviors, like sleepwalking, sheds light on normal brain functions. Leschziner explains the glymphatic system's detoxification during deep sleep and highlights insomnia’s intricate relationship with mental health. With practical sleep hygiene tips and insights on modern sleep challenges, he provides hope and strategies for better sleep.
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INSIGHT

Circadian Rhythm Is Universal

  • Every living cell carries a hardwired ~24-hour circadian rhythm that coordinates genes and organ systems.
  • A master clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus synchronizes sleep timing across the body.
ANECDOTE

Strange Nighttime Behaviors Seen In Clinic

  • Guy described extreme sleep behaviors including people driving or dismantling TVs while asleep.
  • He also recounted a case where accusations of nocturnal sexual assaults were actually the accuser's mental illness.
ANECDOTE

Kenneth Parks Case Illustrates Automatism

  • Guy recounted Kenneth Parks, acquitted after killing relatives while reportedly sleepwalking.
  • The case became famous for the automatism defense where acts lacked conscious intent.
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