Yishan Xu: Unlocking the Power of Sleep for a Healthier, Sober Life
Evolutionarily, we still have to sleep, even in the ancient times. When it's dangerous, we don't sleep enough, but when everything's safe, we do need sleep.
Ever thought about how much your sleep impacts your sobriety journey? In this episode of 'Steps to Sobriety', host Stephan Neff sits down with Yishan Xu, a sleep psychologist, to uncover the vital role of quality sleep in overcoming addiction. Dr. Xu, who has an impressive background in sleep medicine from Stanford, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.
She likens her role to that of a gardener, helping people trim away the mental blocks and stressors that hinder their well-being. Growing up in China and fluent in both Mandarin and English, Dr. Xu advocates for evidence-based treatments to cultivate a balanced and meaningful life. Dr. Xu dives into how poor sleep can exacerbate issues like anxiety and depression, which are often intertwined with addiction.
She discusses how alcohol disrupts sleep patterns, leading to problems like snoring, sleep apnea, and insomnia. But it’s not all doom and gloom—Dr. Xu shares practical strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to retrain the brain for better sleep habits. She also touches on the role of life coaching in setting goals and improving self-care routines. Throughout the episode, you'll find actionable tips and insights that make the complex topic of sleep psychology accessible and relatable. Dr.
Xu's empathetic approach ensures that even those who struggle with severe sleep issues can find hope and practical advice. If you’re looking to improve your sleep and, by extension, your overall quality of life, this episode is a must-listen.