Unlocking Better Sleep: How Trauma Affects Your Rest with Dr. Michael Breus
Episode Overview
Trauma can make you feel 'wired and tired', disrupting sleep. Feeling safe is crucial for achieving restful sleep. Discovering your chronotype can improve your sleep cycle. Using a worry journal can help manage nighttime anxiety. Consistent wake-up times are essential for better sleep.
Dreaming is actually where we process a very large portion of our emotions.
Ever wondered why you can't seem to get a good night's sleep, no matter what you try? This episode of The Biology of Trauma™ With Dr. Aimie might have the answers you're looking for. Dr. Aimie welcomes Dr. Michael Breus, a double board-certified clinical psychologist and sleep specialist, to uncover how unresolved trauma can wreak havoc on your sleep patterns. They dive into the ways your nervous system processes traumatic experiences and the lasting impact on your rest. Dr.
Breus shares fascinating case studies from his practice, illustrating how various types of trauma—from natural disasters to personal assaults—can disrupt sleep. He explains that trauma can make you feel 'wired and tired', affecting your ability to fall and stay asleep. You'll learn about the importance of feeling safe to achieve restful sleep and how trauma can trigger a freeze response, leading to shallow breathing and restless nights. The episode also explores practical solutions to these sleep issues. Dr.
Breus discusses techniques like discovering your chronotype to improve your sleep cycle, using a worry journal to manage nighttime anxiety, and employing specific breathing exercises to lower your heart rate for better sleep. There's even talk about how dream therapy can help process emotions and why having a consistent wake-up time is crucial. Dr. Aimie and Dr.
Breus offer a compassionate and engaging conversation filled with practical advice that could be a game-changer for anyone struggling with sleep due to past traumas. If you've been searching for ways to improve your sleep and overall well-being, this episode is a must-listen.