This simple sleep technique is gaining traction across social media.
But this technique isn’t as new as the viral posts suggest.
What Is the Cognitive Shuffle Method?
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Cognitive shuffling is a sleep technique discovered by cognitive scientist Luc Beaudoin, PhD, in 2014.
Walker went through his experiences with the method and explained why it works for him.
Here, Hafeez shares her image-based tutorial for cognitive shuffling.
Does Cognitive Shuffling Actually Work?
If you’re struggling to fall asleep, try the method above to see if it helps.
If its not working for you, Hafeez suggests troubleshooting with the following in mind.
Keep Imagery Simple
Only focus on simple, everyday images.
Don’t overcomplicate it.
Be sure to avoid thinking about any images that may be triggering, says Hafeez.
The consistency can help with improving its effectiveness over time, says Hafeez.
Avoid Overthinking
Hafeez suggests that you stop worrying about whether you’re using the method correctly.
The goal is to distract your mind from stressors, not to cause more overthinking.
Create a Relaxing Sleep Environment
Its also important thatyour sleep environment is relaxingand has no distractions.
Beaudoin LP.A design-based approach to sleep-onset and insomnia: super-somnolent mentation, the cognitive shuffle and serial diverse imagining.
Computational Modeling of Cognition-Emotion Interactions: Relevance to Mechanisms of Affective Disorders and Therapeutic Action.
Published July 24, 2014.
