A technique called paradoxical intention has been in the works since the 1930s, usually used to treat anxiety disorders, but it can also be utilised for better sleep – you just have to tell yourself you’re not falling asleep and not put any pressure on yourself to drift off.
For insomnia, the theory is that when we get into bed and try to go to sleep, the pressure of trying to sleep, causes anxiety.
We spoke to Dr Deborah Lee, sleep expert from Doctor Fox, who tells us about how to practice paradoxical intention, and activate your PSNS instead of the SNS nervous system.
While more tests need to be carried out, in 2002 a study concluded that paradoxical intention was better at reducing sleep-related anxiety than other passive methods of trying to induce sleep.
She also warns that paradoxical intention alone might not be enough, as you’ll also need to be practicing good sleep health.
