129: How Humans Actually Slept!

Most people assume eight hours of uninterrupted sleep is the biological default. It isn't. For the vast majority of human history, people slept in two distinct phases — waking naturally in the middle of the night for prayer, reflection, and quiet work before returning to sleep until dawn.

In this episode, we explore what ancestral sleep patterns actually looked like, what the science says about biphasic and split sleep, and why your 3 AM wake-up might not be insomnia. We also break down ultradian rhythms, the overlooked biology behind your afternoon energy crash, and two practical sleep templates you can apply to a modern schedule.

Your sleep doesn't need to be fixed. It might just need to be understood.

Learn More:

85: Sleep Before Midnight: Does It Really Matter?: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/85-sleep-before-midnight-does-it-really-matter/

82: Why You Can't Sleep: The Surprising Truth with Nicholas Stewart: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/82-why-you-cant-sleep-the-surprising-truth-with-nicholas-stewart/ 

Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Peluva!

Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven't worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury. 

To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/peluva-review/ 

And use code MICHAEL to get 10% off your first pair: https://michaelkummer.com/go/peluva 

In this episode:
00:00 Sleep is a modern invention

00:57 First and second sleep

02:06 Stop fearing night waking

02:30 Permission not prescription

06:35 Split sleep template

08:10 Nap plus main sleep

10:46 Light as the master lever

13:05 One week sleep experiments

14:42 Final thoughts

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[Medical Disclaimer]

The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health.

[Affiliate Disclaimer]

I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you'd like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code.