#49 - Nightmares and Treatment

The Matt Walker Podcast

Today, Matt explores the fascinating realm of nightmares and the cutting-edge treatment known as Image Rehearsal Therapy (IRT). Nightmares, often associated with rapid eye movement sleep (REM sleep), can disrupt sleep quality and emotional well-being. However, IRT offers a unique approach to tackling nightmares by helping individuals envision alternative endings to their recurring dreams. By modifying and rehearsing these alternative scenarios, individuals can update their nightmare memories with more neutral or positive experiences.

Delving into the science behind IRT, Matt showcases its potential to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of nightmares. Furthermore, he shares a groundbreaking study that investigates the use of sound cues during dream sleep to enhance the efficacy of IRT. The study's findings suggest that combining daytime rehearsal with nighttime memory reactivation could lead to even greater psychological improvement and long-lasting therapeutic benefits. As Matt concludes, while the study represents a promising step forward, further research is needed to fully explore the potential of this innovative approach to nightmare treatment.

Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.

The good people at InsideTracker are one of the sponsors of this week's episode, and they are generously offering a special 25% off any one of their programs for anyone who uses the above link during the time window of this episode. InsideTracker is a personalized biometric platform that analyzes your blood and your DNA to better understand what's happening inside of you and offers suggestions regarding things that you can do to better try and adjust some of those numbers, optimize them, and, as a result, optimize you.

Another sponsor this week is the biochemical electrolyte drink company LMNT, and they are very kindly offering eight free sample packs when you purchase any one of their orders at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. LMNT is an electrolyte sports drink that I can get behind - it's created from the basis of science, and it has no sugar, no coloring, and no artificial ingredients – all qualities that are so important to maintaining your blood biochemical balance. If you want to give LMNT a try, just head on over to drinklmnt.com/mattwalker and get your eight free samples with your first purchase.

As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt on Instagram.