Protocol guides
Jenna Gress Smith, PhD
I am a clinical psychologist who treats, researches, and loves all things sleep and health related.
Sleep 101
Your Circadian Clock
You can think of your circadian clock as the conductor of an orchestra, with the instruments being different types of bodily systems. Each part of the orchestra functions independently, but we feel best when they are in sync.
Sleep 101
Why do I have trouble sleeping?
These are changes to behavior or thought patterns that accidentally make the insomnia continue beyond the initial stressor— or the "glue" that keeps the poor sleep patterns together.
Cognitive performance
5 Ways to Optimize Your Coffee Nap
Drinking coffee before a short nap has been shown to increase energy levels and productivity better than doing either of those things on their own. These 5 tips will help you maximize those benefits.
Sleep health
How does Alcohol Impact Your Sleep?
Alcohol has a sedative effect that someone might mistake as relaxing or helpful with sleep, but from a physiological perspective that is not the case.
Physical recovery
Sleep and Muscle Recovery
If there’s one aspect of training that many athletes neglect, it's the importance of sleep to their strength and recovery routine. But that's when the magic happens.
Sleep health
Cold or Hot Shower Before Bed: Which Is Better for Sleep?
A shower or bath in the evening is a great way to wash away the day and wind down before bed. Should you go hot or cold for your deepest sleep?
Physical performance
Want to sleep better? Lift some weights.
Results of a new study show that resistance exercise promotes better sleep among inactive adults, especially those who are poor sleepers.
Sleep health
Does Tryptophan in Turkey Really Make You Sleepy?
Why does turkey make you sleepy? You've finished your Thanksgiving meal and now you're ready for a nice nap. Is the bird to blame?
Cognitive performance
Guide to Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) and how to get started
NSDR helps slow down your thought-flow and brain wave frequency, allowing your brain and body to rest deeply. It can help with sleep, stress, anxiety ... and even learning.
Sleep health
Why Your Wake Time Matters More Than Your Bedtime for Improving Sleep
Sticking to a regular morning wake-up time is one of the best things you can do to improve your sleep tonight. (And the next night, too.)
Sleep health
What is sleep apnea, what are the symptoms, and how to take action
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. What are the symptoms and risks of sleep apnea? How do you treat and manage sleep apnea?