So on the 20th was eid and coincidentally my last day on the sleep schedule for about a week. We have a bunch of guests at the house, with little children and due to the company, my schedule is impossible to keep up. I'm going to take a week's hiatus and return to the schedule hopefully some time next week. This weekend truly wore me out. I have to say that I did make it 20 day! Not bad for something I didn't think would last more than 3 days.
Hopefully, next time it'll be a bit easier. Especially that there's no more fasting involved.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Day 17 - Early AM Update
Well what can I say, yesterday overall wasn't a good day for me. I guess I had been more fatigued than I realized and my body began to complain. I was doing well most of the night however, as time went on I developed a headache and a slight fever. Finally time came for my 6 AM nap and when I awoke from it, I was miserable. My eyes were burning, I couldn't even open them fully, my head was pounding and completely foggy as well as I had developed a low grade fever resulting in periodic sweats.
I'm just postulating that the abovementioned condition was due to fatigue, however, it could very well have been due to the recently changing weather. Whatever the case was, I spent the majority of my day in bed, trying not to necessarily sleep in order to keep my schedule intact. By mid-afternoon, I did feel better, however the fogginess in my head never fully retracted nether did the headache. As I sit here currently, I feel that I'm adjusted, however I can also feel my eyes beginning to burn again and my head is throbbing - albeit at a very low level. Today, I had a significant number of things on my To-Do list, which obviously did not get completed, one of which was a report for a client. I hope I can maintain enough focus and get it done tonight. Overall, this sleep schedule is beginning to wear on me. I'm also beginning to doubt if it's feasible in the long run. The big thing is that even in 6 hour increments it's difficult to maintain a set schedule. There are inevitably events which happen on a near daily basis which cause one to deviate. Anyhow, as it stands I'm going to truck through it for at least another week and a half - I want to give it a full week without fasting and see if there's a difference.
Overall, I feel that my focus levels are pretty good during the night hours, at least for the first 2 to 3 hours after my nap. Looking at the time now, I must be nearing the end of my focus time.
I'm just postulating that the abovementioned condition was due to fatigue, however, it could very well have been due to the recently changing weather. Whatever the case was, I spent the majority of my day in bed, trying not to necessarily sleep in order to keep my schedule intact. By mid-afternoon, I did feel better, however the fogginess in my head never fully retracted nether did the headache. As I sit here currently, I feel that I'm adjusted, however I can also feel my eyes beginning to burn again and my head is throbbing - albeit at a very low level. Today, I had a significant number of things on my To-Do list, which obviously did not get completed, one of which was a report for a client. I hope I can maintain enough focus and get it done tonight. Overall, this sleep schedule is beginning to wear on me. I'm also beginning to doubt if it's feasible in the long run. The big thing is that even in 6 hour increments it's difficult to maintain a set schedule. There are inevitably events which happen on a near daily basis which cause one to deviate. Anyhow, as it stands I'm going to truck through it for at least another week and a half - I want to give it a full week without fasting and see if there's a difference.
Overall, I feel that my focus levels are pretty good during the night hours, at least for the first 2 to 3 hours after my nap. Looking at the time now, I must be nearing the end of my focus time.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Day 16 - Early AM Update - 3rd person narrative
He awoke from what seemed like an eternity. His weary eyes bloodshot and tired struggle to focus. He slowly lifts his body into what seems to be a seated position. Slowly rotating his legs until they hang from the side of his newly purchased bed which is designed to help support his problematic back. This night his back is without pain, perhaps his workout regime is finally helping or perhaps the bed is doing what it should.
He leaves his room, looking down the hallway, where a solitary night light dimly lit struggles to illuminate more than 3 square inches. He slowly walks towards the light which is positioned directly across the stairway leading downstairs. As he walks downstairs he wonders, why is he awake at such an ungodly hour? Is this a natural way to exist? As he takes another step, the overwhelming desire to head back to the comfort of his bed is begins to gnaw at his psyche. Fighting the urge he continues further down the stairs, gripping the hand rail in what can be described as the minimal amount of light which his eyes could possibly use to make out objects.
He dare not turn on the lights, fearing he will wake the others. With each step down the stairs, the wood seems to creak louder and louder to say that he will not get away this time. Finally, as the floor began to scream at the top of it's lungs, he reached the bottom with a prolonged sigh. He looks back up the stairs, expecting to see a shadow or two of the disturbed ones. Seeing none, he has gotten away this time. He inches his way into the kitchen and turns the corner, whereby another nightlight illuminates nothing but a few inches below itself. However, this light is enough to allow him to make his way to the fridge. Upon opening the fridge, a brightness which can only be described as the sun unleashing it's wrath on the unknowing nearly blinds him. His eyes take what seems to be eons to adjust.
Well - I'll end my 3rd person narration as I seem to be boring myself ha!
So yes, I tried taking my midnight nap, and I felt like I was laying there forever without falling asleep. My 6 PM nap was much the same. I now understand why my 6 AM naps are so intense and why I have such a difficult time getting up. Well the good thing is that my creative juices are flowing. While I was tired prior to my so called midnight nap, even though I didn't fall asleep I feel rested. I actually have a lot of work which needs to get done tonight as I've been procrastinating - well not really, I've just re-prioritized other things over this and now I'm at the 11th hour trying to get it done! Regardless, I'm over the 2 week hump and going strong! One thing is that I am quite a bit under the weather, while I feel energized for short periods of time, I'm without energy for longer. I suppose the meds I just took for my cold / fever have begun their effects, hence I'm here. So I bid you adieu for now!
He leaves his room, looking down the hallway, where a solitary night light dimly lit struggles to illuminate more than 3 square inches. He slowly walks towards the light which is positioned directly across the stairway leading downstairs. As he walks downstairs he wonders, why is he awake at such an ungodly hour? Is this a natural way to exist? As he takes another step, the overwhelming desire to head back to the comfort of his bed is begins to gnaw at his psyche. Fighting the urge he continues further down the stairs, gripping the hand rail in what can be described as the minimal amount of light which his eyes could possibly use to make out objects.
He dare not turn on the lights, fearing he will wake the others. With each step down the stairs, the wood seems to creak louder and louder to say that he will not get away this time. Finally, as the floor began to scream at the top of it's lungs, he reached the bottom with a prolonged sigh. He looks back up the stairs, expecting to see a shadow or two of the disturbed ones. Seeing none, he has gotten away this time. He inches his way into the kitchen and turns the corner, whereby another nightlight illuminates nothing but a few inches below itself. However, this light is enough to allow him to make his way to the fridge. Upon opening the fridge, a brightness which can only be described as the sun unleashing it's wrath on the unknowing nearly blinds him. His eyes take what seems to be eons to adjust.
Well - I'll end my 3rd person narration as I seem to be boring myself ha!
So yes, I tried taking my midnight nap, and I felt like I was laying there forever without falling asleep. My 6 PM nap was much the same. I now understand why my 6 AM naps are so intense and why I have such a difficult time getting up. Well the good thing is that my creative juices are flowing. While I was tired prior to my so called midnight nap, even though I didn't fall asleep I feel rested. I actually have a lot of work which needs to get done tonight as I've been procrastinating - well not really, I've just re-prioritized other things over this and now I'm at the 11th hour trying to get it done! Regardless, I'm over the 2 week hump and going strong! One thing is that I am quite a bit under the weather, while I feel energized for short periods of time, I'm without energy for longer. I suppose the meds I just took for my cold / fever have begun their effects, hence I'm here. So I bid you adieu for now!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Day 15 - Early AM Update
So my sleep experiment isn't working so well. I'm not sure if I've mentioned this before, however it's critical to stay on the sleep schedule. On Saturday I ended up missing 2 naps, the results weren't pretty. I felt as if I had been run over by a bus. I ended up sleeping deeper than I remember I've ever slept. This sleep unfortunately lasted for over 7 hours straight. I slept through my alarms and apparently attempts to wake me up were unsuccessful.
It took me until today - essentially 2 days to recover from that fiasco. On an interesting sidebar, I've been kind of stressing about getting off of this schedule. In particular that I will not have any time to get things accomplished. Additionally, I've realized that I'm not necessarily that much more productive, as I feel like I'm just shifting things on my list to do, i.e. procrastinating. I need to get no the ball and not waste time.
It took me until today - essentially 2 days to recover from that fiasco. On an interesting sidebar, I've been kind of stressing about getting off of this schedule. In particular that I will not have any time to get things accomplished. Additionally, I've realized that I'm not necessarily that much more productive, as I feel like I'm just shifting things on my list to do, i.e. procrastinating. I need to get no the ball and not waste time.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Day 12 - Early AM - Synopsis of my experiences so far
Yes I'm still with it. I've been a bit busy in the last few days to write. So I've been meaning to write a little bit more about my observations during my nearly 2 week tenure of this experiment.
Many a times, I sit starting into space. Wondering if this is natural? Will it have any long lasting effects on me physically, mentally or even to my psyche? I wonder if it's sustainable. Let me shed some light on my experiences.
This sleep pattern definitely isn't for everyone. One thing I have realized is that you must be committed to it, and cannot take it lightly. If you do take it lightly, you're going to suffer. A few such examples, I missed a few naps here and there. Recovering from "misses" are extremely difficult as you end up hitting a wall. Let me back up. I started the experiment using the Uberman Sleeping Method which prescribes taking 20 minute naps every 4 hours. After a few days I realized that every 4 hours wasn't going to suit me. I adjusted my schedule to take a 45 minute nap every 6 hours. This schedule seems to be working well for me.
The initial few days were a bit of a haze. I felt like I wasn't completely awake and not asleep, rather in a zombie state. The night time waking hours seemed a bit less difficult in terms of needing to be awake and cognizant. Productivity overall did increase, but productivity per unit of time seemed to have decreased. I feel that this decrease was mainly due to the fact that I am fasting during the day, hence lethargy and lack of energy were to be expected. I have about 2 1/2 weeks left and then the fasting period will be over. I'd like to continue this experiment through the period where I'm eating during the day and then see how it is. I'm guessing there should be a significant improvement in my cognitive state.
Again I feel like I'm jumping from one point to another as I haven't thought out what I am writing. One of my issues since childhood has been my inability to sleep well. I'm a borderline insomniac whereby I'd lay awake for hours before falling asleep. Fast forward to this experiment. I was extremely skeptical about it. I felt that I'd never be able to get to sleep. The first few days were indeed like that. I'd lay down for the prescribed time and not be able to sleep. An interesting observation, over time even if I don't fall asleep, just laying down is enough to recharge me - albeit it's not a full charge by any means.
Moving forward, I think that I'm adjusted to the 6 hour schedule. I'm still not convinced that this schedule is sustainable. I currently have flexibility in my job whereby I'm able to work from home and control my schedule around my sleeping. If my work situation changes or I have to travel, I'm not sure how this would translate? Time to go, more later.
Many a times, I sit starting into space. Wondering if this is natural? Will it have any long lasting effects on me physically, mentally or even to my psyche? I wonder if it's sustainable. Let me shed some light on my experiences.
This sleep pattern definitely isn't for everyone. One thing I have realized is that you must be committed to it, and cannot take it lightly. If you do take it lightly, you're going to suffer. A few such examples, I missed a few naps here and there. Recovering from "misses" are extremely difficult as you end up hitting a wall. Let me back up. I started the experiment using the Uberman Sleeping Method which prescribes taking 20 minute naps every 4 hours. After a few days I realized that every 4 hours wasn't going to suit me. I adjusted my schedule to take a 45 minute nap every 6 hours. This schedule seems to be working well for me.
The initial few days were a bit of a haze. I felt like I wasn't completely awake and not asleep, rather in a zombie state. The night time waking hours seemed a bit less difficult in terms of needing to be awake and cognizant. Productivity overall did increase, but productivity per unit of time seemed to have decreased. I feel that this decrease was mainly due to the fact that I am fasting during the day, hence lethargy and lack of energy were to be expected. I have about 2 1/2 weeks left and then the fasting period will be over. I'd like to continue this experiment through the period where I'm eating during the day and then see how it is. I'm guessing there should be a significant improvement in my cognitive state.
Again I feel like I'm jumping from one point to another as I haven't thought out what I am writing. One of my issues since childhood has been my inability to sleep well. I'm a borderline insomniac whereby I'd lay awake for hours before falling asleep. Fast forward to this experiment. I was extremely skeptical about it. I felt that I'd never be able to get to sleep. The first few days were indeed like that. I'd lay down for the prescribed time and not be able to sleep. An interesting observation, over time even if I don't fall asleep, just laying down is enough to recharge me - albeit it's not a full charge by any means.
Moving forward, I think that I'm adjusted to the 6 hour schedule. I'm still not convinced that this schedule is sustainable. I currently have flexibility in my job whereby I'm able to work from home and control my schedule around my sleeping. If my work situation changes or I have to travel, I'm not sure how this would translate? Time to go, more later.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Day 9 - Evening Update
As you can see my updates haven't been as frequent. It's interesting as I'm kind of losing track of days. I felt that my last post was done today, however when I checked the date, it was yesterday. I will have to resort to checking the date to keep track.
I feel that the progress I made in terms of regularizing my sleep schedule may have been lost over the weekend. It's been a tough few days and with some work projects that need completing I'm going to need to be fully aware and productive for the next couple of days. Additionally, my night time productivity is beginning to drop. Last night I pretty much vegged on the couch for 4 to 5 hours straight. It was bizarre, I found myself staring into space and struggling to keep myself awake. In retrospect I should have taken a short nap.
Today I've been pretty good. I took my 6 AM nap as planned and only for 30 minutes. I set my timer for 45 minutes as soon as I lay down. I assume it takes me 10 to 15 minutes to sleep, hence I should net about 30 minutes. I've really been over estimating my ability to fall asleep quickly. Nevertheless, the noon nap went well albeit an hour later than normal. It's already time for my 6 PM nap (6:25 PM currently). However, I felt that I should post at least once during daylight hours today.
Overall I feel pretty good. Not as good as I did a few days ago. As I've said before, I'm also fasting, so that might be another reason for me feeling more tired and weak. I was also on a good weight loss trajectory, which seems to have plateaued. I'd lost about 7 lbs since I began fasting. For the last 4 to 5 days my weight has become steady. Considering my eating is the same as it was before I started this experiment and now that I'm moving around extra hours, I would have thought that there should be some additional weight loss as I'm burning more calories. I guess the human body isn't that simple - linear logic perhaps doesn't apply.
I feel that the progress I made in terms of regularizing my sleep schedule may have been lost over the weekend. It's been a tough few days and with some work projects that need completing I'm going to need to be fully aware and productive for the next couple of days. Additionally, my night time productivity is beginning to drop. Last night I pretty much vegged on the couch for 4 to 5 hours straight. It was bizarre, I found myself staring into space and struggling to keep myself awake. In retrospect I should have taken a short nap.
Today I've been pretty good. I took my 6 AM nap as planned and only for 30 minutes. I set my timer for 45 minutes as soon as I lay down. I assume it takes me 10 to 15 minutes to sleep, hence I should net about 30 minutes. I've really been over estimating my ability to fall asleep quickly. Nevertheless, the noon nap went well albeit an hour later than normal. It's already time for my 6 PM nap (6:25 PM currently). However, I felt that I should post at least once during daylight hours today.
Overall I feel pretty good. Not as good as I did a few days ago. As I've said before, I'm also fasting, so that might be another reason for me feeling more tired and weak. I was also on a good weight loss trajectory, which seems to have plateaued. I'd lost about 7 lbs since I began fasting. For the last 4 to 5 days my weight has become steady. Considering my eating is the same as it was before I started this experiment and now that I'm moving around extra hours, I would have thought that there should be some additional weight loss as I'm burning more calories. I guess the human body isn't that simple - linear logic perhaps doesn't apply.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Day 8 - Morning Update
Since my schedule adherence difficulties over Labor Day weekend, I've still not recovered fully. I feel that I'm still tired after my naps and the feeling continues with me from one nap to the next. I must remind myself to not give into sleeping more than 45 minutes. It is definitely a challenge.
Anyhow, last night's midnight nap wasn't fruitful as I couldn't fall asleep so I ended up getting up when the alarm rang. The 6 AM nap however went off without a hitch. Overall I feel that the 6 AM nap is consistently my best sleeping time. I wonder why? The sniffles and sneezing I had yesterday seems to have manifested in a full blown cold now. Hopefully, I can overcome it fairly quickly. Also, I'm guessing the recent bout of headaches might have been a precursor to me getting the cold? I don't know, I'm not doctor!
On a positive note, I've noticed no matter how much or little sleep I get, I can definitely concentrate and be productive. I suppose my body has gotten used to the idea of short naps and knows one isn't far away at anytime.
Anyhow, last night's midnight nap wasn't fruitful as I couldn't fall asleep so I ended up getting up when the alarm rang. The 6 AM nap however went off without a hitch. Overall I feel that the 6 AM nap is consistently my best sleeping time. I wonder why? The sniffles and sneezing I had yesterday seems to have manifested in a full blown cold now. Hopefully, I can overcome it fairly quickly. Also, I'm guessing the recent bout of headaches might have been a precursor to me getting the cold? I don't know, I'm not doctor!
On a positive note, I've noticed no matter how much or little sleep I get, I can definitely concentrate and be productive. I suppose my body has gotten used to the idea of short naps and knows one isn't far away at anytime.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Day 7 - Afternoon Update
So it's been a bit busy, and yesterday / today was quite difficult in terms of being able to maintain my schedule. Unfortunately, yesterday 3 naps, 12 PM, 6 PM and the mid-night naps didn't go as planned. The first 2, I was unable to get to sleep in. The mid-night nap didn't end up happening until 4 AM unfortunately, I was so exhausted, I ended up oversleeping a few extra hours. My noon nap today was pushed back to around 2 PM and again it lasted a bit longer - as I slept through the alarm.
What I'm beginning to see is that it's critical to adhere to the schedule. Any deviation from the set schedule has lasting effects. A couple times where I have missed naps or been unable to sleep, I've paid the price by oversleeping and essentially losing the benefits of this schedule. Additionally, when I oversleep, I wake up with terrible headaches and feelings of continued grogginess. At this point, I've been wake for over 4 hours and yet I still feel extremely groggy. Additionally, I think I might also be getting a cold, as the weather has changed a bit in the last few days. Hopefully it doesn't last - the cold that is.
In the coming week, I'm going to try harder to stick ot the schedule. In order to remedy the excess sleep, I skipped the 6 PM nap and will be sleeping again at mid-night. Hopefully, I'll be back on track by 1 AM.
What I'm beginning to see is that it's critical to adhere to the schedule. Any deviation from the set schedule has lasting effects. A couple times where I have missed naps or been unable to sleep, I've paid the price by oversleeping and essentially losing the benefits of this schedule. Additionally, when I oversleep, I wake up with terrible headaches and feelings of continued grogginess. At this point, I've been wake for over 4 hours and yet I still feel extremely groggy. Additionally, I think I might also be getting a cold, as the weather has changed a bit in the last few days. Hopefully it doesn't last - the cold that is.
In the coming week, I'm going to try harder to stick ot the schedule. In order to remedy the excess sleep, I skipped the 6 PM nap and will be sleeping again at mid-night. Hopefully, I'll be back on track by 1 AM.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Day 6 - Afternnoon Update
I can't believe I've been doing this for 6 days already. Today has been great. I seem to be in the flow of things. I've just noticed that it's extremely easy to sleep for longer than 30 or 45 minutes and it's taken some dedication on my part to make sure I don't.
Last night after my midnight nap, I wasn't motivated to do anything, so I just vegged and watched TV for a few hours and surfed the web reading random things and some news. My 6 AM nap went off without a hitch. For the 2nd time I believe since I started this experiment I had a vivid dream which I still remember. I slept for about 40 minutes, however the dream was extremely real. I'm guessing, I've began to drift into REM sleep.
My noon nap today unfortunately didn't result in a dream, no matter, I do feel rested but do have a pounding headache. Perhaps it was due to doing a few hours of yard work? My morning was extremely productive and I came out of the gate highly motivated and ready to get things done.
Last night after my midnight nap, I wasn't motivated to do anything, so I just vegged and watched TV for a few hours and surfed the web reading random things and some news. My 6 AM nap went off without a hitch. For the 2nd time I believe since I started this experiment I had a vivid dream which I still remember. I slept for about 40 minutes, however the dream was extremely real. I'm guessing, I've began to drift into REM sleep.
My noon nap today unfortunately didn't result in a dream, no matter, I do feel rested but do have a pounding headache. Perhaps it was due to doing a few hours of yard work? My morning was extremely productive and I came out of the gate highly motivated and ready to get things done.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Day 5 - Afternoon Update
So it's been nearly 24 hours since my last update. I've actually been quite busy, between creating my to-do list and executing on it. Nevertheless, let's move on to how the experiment is faring.
Last night went about without a hitch. I had another very productive night. Between the midnight nap and 6 am nap, I was extremely focused. I'd say I was nearly a 9. The 6AM nap did however cause a bit of a wrinkle in the experiment. I severely overslept. I went to bed around 6 AM and slept through multiple alarms finally waking at about 9 AM. I woke up and was extremely groggy and it took a while for me to get my bearings. Today again being an extremely busy (and productive) day, my noon nap time was displace by a few hours.
I ended up finally laying down at 3 PM, 3 hours later than I should have. However I kept this nap brief (1/2 hour) so that I could try to get back in to the rhythm and take a 6 PM nap as well. What I found peculiar was that around noon my body was craving for me to go take a nap. Not just a nudge, rather a full blown drowsiness, like when one comes out of surgery or an allnighter.
I'm currently at a 6 for awareness and feel like I'm fading fast. Well it's nearly 6 so it's time for me to take another nap.
Last night went about without a hitch. I had another very productive night. Between the midnight nap and 6 am nap, I was extremely focused. I'd say I was nearly a 9. The 6AM nap did however cause a bit of a wrinkle in the experiment. I severely overslept. I went to bed around 6 AM and slept through multiple alarms finally waking at about 9 AM. I woke up and was extremely groggy and it took a while for me to get my bearings. Today again being an extremely busy (and productive) day, my noon nap time was displace by a few hours.
I ended up finally laying down at 3 PM, 3 hours later than I should have. However I kept this nap brief (1/2 hour) so that I could try to get back in to the rhythm and take a 6 PM nap as well. What I found peculiar was that around noon my body was craving for me to go take a nap. Not just a nudge, rather a full blown drowsiness, like when one comes out of surgery or an allnighter.
I'm currently at a 6 for awareness and feel like I'm fading fast. Well it's nearly 6 so it's time for me to take another nap.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Day 4 - Afternoon Update
Not much to report at this time. I had become extremely tired so I took a nap an hour before my nap time at 11 AM instead of noon. That nap seemed to work it's magic as I'm still pretty amped. My concentration, awareness and energy levels are near 7 or 8 and I've been extremely productive since. It's been good so far, but I'm fading fast. I think I will probably last until 5:30ish.. That's just as well as I have to be somewhere at 6. I need to get my to-do list together for tonight. I think the one thing that causes me to be unproductive during the night hours is my lack of planning. I'll get that done prior.
Day 4 - Morning Update
I'm pleased to say that I was able to get my first workout in, albeit, it was a short one, but it was positive. I have a long ways to go! Overall the night went well. As I got closer to my nap my awareness level and concentration both increased - strange?. It was semi-productive - mainly due to my disorganization, I didn't have my usual to-do list and lazily did whatever I felt like doing. The night was great, I was quite focused on the task a hand, awareness and concentration levels were both around 8 by the time my 6 AM nap came around..
As far as after my 6 AM nap, I feel like I've hit a wall. Waking up from the nap was quite difficult. I snoozed for about 20 minutes. Additionally, my head still feels cloudy and sleep hasn't left me just yet and I've been awake for more than an hour. I hope this improves as I have quite a bit to do before my noon nap (which I will need to postpone to 1ish due to Jummah).
At sehri I took a few Advils just as a precaution as I've been getting headaches after my morning naps. Today is no exception, my head is pounding, my eyes are puffy and I'm having a hard time staying awake. I'm literally nodding off while writing this entry.
As far as after my 6 AM nap, I feel like I've hit a wall. Waking up from the nap was quite difficult. I snoozed for about 20 minutes. Additionally, my head still feels cloudy and sleep hasn't left me just yet and I've been awake for more than an hour. I hope this improves as I have quite a bit to do before my noon nap (which I will need to postpone to 1ish due to Jummah).
At sehri I took a few Advils just as a precaution as I've been getting headaches after my morning naps. Today is no exception, my head is pounding, my eyes are puffy and I'm having a hard time staying awake. I'm literally nodding off while writing this entry.
Day 4 - 3 AMish Update
Yesterday evening, since my modification of the schedule two things happened:
My days have become interesting. I don't see a clear break from one day to the next anymore. It seems that I have to take external cues such as calendar date or time to determine that I'm in the next day since the prolonged nightly sleep isn't there.
I've also noticed a few changes in my normal behavior / health. Typically, I would take a shower every morning once I woke up. Now I'm taking 2 showers in a 24 hour period. For some reason, I'm taking a shower right after I get up from my noon nap and the midnight one. Perhaps my body is seeing it as 2 days? Additionally, I've seem to have developed sort of a cold. I seem to get a runny nose when I'm getting closer to my nap time and begin sneezing. Perhaps I'm getting sick or it's a cue telling me that I need to sleep?
As for my diet, I've been trying to keep it as healthy as I can. As I mentioned before, I'm trying to keep up the high fruit intake, with limited caffeine intake. Additionally, I've also cut down my meat intake. It's weird, when I am able to eat, I'm not getting that hungry. Perhaps it's because I gorge at iftaar time and I'm set for the rest of the night? One thing I don't do is drink water throughout the night. It's something I'm going to remedy immediately.
Currently, I still feel sleepy. When I got up after snoozing my alarm for 1/2 an hour, I felt that I could probably sleep for another 3 to 4 hours easily. In terms of awareness, concentration etc.. I feel that my awareness level right now is quite low - probably a 4, concentration is near a 5 and lastly, I'm really not motivated to do anything. I'm going to try to push myself to get some work done and once again try to get a work out in. So far I've "planned" on working out but haven't managed to get myself to do it.
- My noon nap got delayed until 2 PM
- I completely missed my 6 PM nap
My days have become interesting. I don't see a clear break from one day to the next anymore. It seems that I have to take external cues such as calendar date or time to determine that I'm in the next day since the prolonged nightly sleep isn't there.
I've also noticed a few changes in my normal behavior / health. Typically, I would take a shower every morning once I woke up. Now I'm taking 2 showers in a 24 hour period. For some reason, I'm taking a shower right after I get up from my noon nap and the midnight one. Perhaps my body is seeing it as 2 days? Additionally, I've seem to have developed sort of a cold. I seem to get a runny nose when I'm getting closer to my nap time and begin sneezing. Perhaps I'm getting sick or it's a cue telling me that I need to sleep?
As for my diet, I've been trying to keep it as healthy as I can. As I mentioned before, I'm trying to keep up the high fruit intake, with limited caffeine intake. Additionally, I've also cut down my meat intake. It's weird, when I am able to eat, I'm not getting that hungry. Perhaps it's because I gorge at iftaar time and I'm set for the rest of the night? One thing I don't do is drink water throughout the night. It's something I'm going to remedy immediately.
Currently, I still feel sleepy. When I got up after snoozing my alarm for 1/2 an hour, I felt that I could probably sleep for another 3 to 4 hours easily. In terms of awareness, concentration etc.. I feel that my awareness level right now is quite low - probably a 4, concentration is near a 5 and lastly, I'm really not motivated to do anything. I'm going to try to push myself to get some work done and once again try to get a work out in. So far I've "planned" on working out but haven't managed to get myself to do it.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Day 3 - Afternoon Update
Since I decided to space my naps every 6 hours instead of 4, I've been able to get to sleep easily. Being an armchair doctor / psychologist / sleep therapist with absolutely zero training in any of the aforementioned, it is my humble opinion that I'm not stressing about having to go to sleep and waking up at the cost of missing out on work obligations. Additionally, I've allowed myself extra flexibility.
Today for example, my noon nap didn't begin until 2:30 PM. I'm okay with it. I'm not sure where it puts my evening nap? I've decided I'm just going to take cues from my body and when I feel sleepy, I'll take a 45 min power nap. It may be at 6 or it may be at 10? Let's see how this work. One thing which doesn't work is trying to force myself to sleep when I'm not sleepy.
Now on to other stuff. Overall, since I've been awake, my awareness and concentration levels have both been 8 or higher. Last night my concentration level was at a 3 - and that's me being generous.
I'm not beginning to feel that my body is adapting a little bit. I am again looking forward to the night time hours where I can take care of the numerous projects I have for myself as well as get some quality work done.
Today for example, my noon nap didn't begin until 2:30 PM. I'm okay with it. I'm not sure where it puts my evening nap? I've decided I'm just going to take cues from my body and when I feel sleepy, I'll take a 45 min power nap. It may be at 6 or it may be at 10? Let's see how this work. One thing which doesn't work is trying to force myself to sleep when I'm not sleepy.
Now on to other stuff. Overall, since I've been awake, my awareness and concentration levels have both been 8 or higher. Last night my concentration level was at a 3 - and that's me being generous.
I'm not beginning to feel that my body is adapting a little bit. I am again looking forward to the night time hours where I can take care of the numerous projects I have for myself as well as get some quality work done.
Day 3 - Morning Update
Today I finally had success at sleeping. However, it wasn't the 2 AM nap. The 2 AM nap was again a frustrating one for me as I tossed and turned until the alarm went off. Last night, unlike the night before, was very unproductive. Up until 2 AM, it was business as usual. The post 2 AM nap time frame wasn't nearly as productive. I did manage to get a few hours of work in, however, I don't think the quality was there.
The post sehri / 6 AM nap was fantastic. I fell asleep within 10 minutes, unfortunately , I overslept the 45 minute time allotment, and slept for nearly 1 1/2 hours. I hope this doesn't derail me from training my body.
It's around 8:30 AM right now, and I feel great. I'm at about a 9. I still feel a bit of sleepiness, however, it's nothing out of the ordinary, i.e. pre-experiment I'd feel the same. I do have a full day of scheduled activities today, so I do need to perform well.
The post sehri / 6 AM nap was fantastic. I fell asleep within 10 minutes, unfortunately , I overslept the 45 minute time allotment, and slept for nearly 1 1/2 hours. I hope this doesn't derail me from training my body.
It's around 8:30 AM right now, and I feel great. I'm at about a 9. I still feel a bit of sleepiness, however, it's nothing out of the ordinary, i.e. pre-experiment I'd feel the same. I do have a full day of scheduled activities today, so I do need to perform well.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Day 2 - Night Update
After reading my last post, I realized that I was completely rambling; jumping from one stream of consciousness to another. Additionally, I believe my lack of energy and focus is mostly due to the fasting during the day. Also, I think I've pinned down why I'm unable to sleep at the prescribed 4 hour increments.
For me, and everyone's different, sleeping every 4 hours is overkill. I've decided to modify the timings a bit and attempt to sleep every 6 hours. Every 6 hours I'll target 45 minutes of sleep as opposed to 30 minutes of sleep every 4 hours. Overall, it gets me to the same goal of 3 hours of sleep in a 24 hour period. I feel, that for me the most convenient times for the naps will be 6 AM, 12 PM, 6 PM, and Midnight. This will allow for the flexibility I need in my work schedule as well as my social schedule. Midnight is a good time to hit the sack as they say "nothing ever good happens after midnight".
As far as how I'm feeling - right now I'm at about an 8 in terms of awareness, about 6 in terms of being tired / fatigued, and I've yet to determine my concentration level. During the day my concentration level was dismal, I truly hope that I don't repeat today's performance again. Tonight I'm going to try to do some light exercise, as I feel extremely lethargic and without energy. Until the next post, ciao.
For me, and everyone's different, sleeping every 4 hours is overkill. I've decided to modify the timings a bit and attempt to sleep every 6 hours. Every 6 hours I'll target 45 minutes of sleep as opposed to 30 minutes of sleep every 4 hours. Overall, it gets me to the same goal of 3 hours of sleep in a 24 hour period. I feel, that for me the most convenient times for the naps will be 6 AM, 12 PM, 6 PM, and Midnight. This will allow for the flexibility I need in my work schedule as well as my social schedule. Midnight is a good time to hit the sack as they say "nothing ever good happens after midnight".
As far as how I'm feeling - right now I'm at about an 8 in terms of awareness, about 6 in terms of being tired / fatigued, and I've yet to determine my concentration level. During the day my concentration level was dismal, I truly hope that I don't repeat today's performance again. Tonight I'm going to try to do some light exercise, as I feel extremely lethargic and without energy. Until the next post, ciao.
Day 2 - Evening Update - 7 PM
Things were seemingly going well, however I still am not able to get to sleep within the prescribed 1/2 hour time frame. It is beginning to wear on me as I have a terrible headache. Along with the headache, while my awareness level seems to be fine, I'm extremely lethargic and am not able to concentrate on anything for more than a few minutes.
Since beginning this experiment I have completely given up caffeine (other than one diet coke last night), I haven't been over eating and managing my diet. I've put extra stress on fruits and vegetables, still I feel that I'm not adjusting as I should.
At this point, I've decided that I will give it one more 24 hour period to put it to 3 days and see how it goes. If I'm able to make some improvements, at least in my ability to fall asleep, I'll continue this experiment, however, if I'm unable to fall asleep in more than two consecutive napping times I'll end it.
One thought just crossed my mind, if fasting during this pre-adjustment phase has any impact on my ability to adapt or it's irrelevant. At this point I believe it to be irrelevant as I have had sleeping problems for as long as I can remember.
My main objective through this exercise is to train my body to be able to sleep quickly without prolonged waking time. I'm beginning to wonder if I'm in the zombified state for long, is it even worth being awake for these extra hours? However, I think that I'm thinking of quitting too soon into the process, I should give it more time, at least a week to property adjust to the schedule. It's only been 36 hours or so and I'm nearly giving up. Not good. I think I'll try to go at least through the weekend - esp since it's Labor Day, it should be a bit easier - 3 days without work may be a little easier to digest.
It's almost iftaar time, however the strange thing is that I'm not as hungry as I normally would be, nor am I as thirsty. Perhaps just a one time thing. Let's see how it progresses. I do sincerely hope that I can fall asleep at 10. I did notice that night time naps were somewhat easier while the day time ones have been brutal.
Since beginning this experiment I have completely given up caffeine (other than one diet coke last night), I haven't been over eating and managing my diet. I've put extra stress on fruits and vegetables, still I feel that I'm not adjusting as I should.
At this point, I've decided that I will give it one more 24 hour period to put it to 3 days and see how it goes. If I'm able to make some improvements, at least in my ability to fall asleep, I'll continue this experiment, however, if I'm unable to fall asleep in more than two consecutive napping times I'll end it.
One thought just crossed my mind, if fasting during this pre-adjustment phase has any impact on my ability to adapt or it's irrelevant. At this point I believe it to be irrelevant as I have had sleeping problems for as long as I can remember.
My main objective through this exercise is to train my body to be able to sleep quickly without prolonged waking time. I'm beginning to wonder if I'm in the zombified state for long, is it even worth being awake for these extra hours? However, I think that I'm thinking of quitting too soon into the process, I should give it more time, at least a week to property adjust to the schedule. It's only been 36 hours or so and I'm nearly giving up. Not good. I think I'll try to go at least through the weekend - esp since it's Labor Day, it should be a bit easier - 3 days without work may be a little easier to digest.
It's almost iftaar time, however the strange thing is that I'm not as hungry as I normally would be, nor am I as thirsty. Perhaps just a one time thing. Let's see how it progresses. I do sincerely hope that I can fall asleep at 10. I did notice that night time naps were somewhat easier while the day time ones have been brutal.
Day 2 - 1 PM Update
1 PM Update --- At around 10 I was exhausted, however due to work reasons the nap was pushed back to around 10:45 AM. I promptly fell asleep, however I the phone rang a number of times and unfortunately this time wasn't restful either. For the 2 PM nap, I'll turn the phone off and let everything go to VM. In terms of awareness level, I would say at this point I'm at an 8. When I woke up from my 10 am (more like 11 am ) nap I felt quite refreshed and energetic. At this point I feel good and don't even feel any hint of sleep coming on.
Day 2
So why this experiment. Well simply put, there's just not enough time in the day. So far so good. It's been extremely productive. I'm on a call with work folks overseas. This is great!
Update --- So the 2 AM nap wasn't fruitful as well. Perhaps I was too rested?
7 AM Update --- I finally got some ZZZs! And boy did it feel good. I could have slept for hours. At this point I'm anxiously awaiting the 10 am nap. I feel good, but do feel sleep deprived.
Update --- So the 2 AM nap wasn't fruitful as well. Perhaps I was too rested?
7 AM Update --- I finally got some ZZZs! And boy did it feel good. I could have slept for hours. At this point I'm anxiously awaiting the 10 am nap. I feel good, but do feel sleep deprived.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Today is the day - Day 1
So I've been reading a lot about polyphasic sleep and the Uberman Sleep Schedule. I woke up around 5 AM this morning with no intention of starting this today, however after a few hours of deliberation - I have come to the conclusion better now than never.
My first nap will be at 2 PM today. I've decided the best schedule for me will be 2, 6, 10 for naps. Let's see how long this carries on and my social life doesn't interfere. At this point, I have no social engagements until the upcoming Sunday. Essentially Day 5 - and if need be I'll squeeze a quick nap in. However, I'm jumping ahead as I don't even know if I'll be able to make it to day 5. I'll blog more about myself later on - perhaps in the night hours when all's quiet in the house.
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3:30 PM update --- So I tried taking an afternoon nap, something I've never been able to do. Just as I thought, I didn't fall asleep. Perhaps at 6.
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7 PM update --- Well, the 6 o'clock nap didn't go as planned either. However, this time I'm not sure if I fell asleep. I guess I'm anxious about this whole process.
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11 PM update --- Similar to the other nap attempts, this one was also a bust. Tried to sleep for 20 of the 30 minutes and finally frustrated I just got up. c'est la vie. 2 AM! I'm counting on you. If not definitely by 6 AM I should be able to sleep.
My first nap will be at 2 PM today. I've decided the best schedule for me will be 2, 6, 10 for naps. Let's see how long this carries on and my social life doesn't interfere. At this point, I have no social engagements until the upcoming Sunday. Essentially Day 5 - and if need be I'll squeeze a quick nap in. However, I'm jumping ahead as I don't even know if I'll be able to make it to day 5. I'll blog more about myself later on - perhaps in the night hours when all's quiet in the house.
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3:30 PM update --- So I tried taking an afternoon nap, something I've never been able to do. Just as I thought, I didn't fall asleep. Perhaps at 6.
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7 PM update --- Well, the 6 o'clock nap didn't go as planned either. However, this time I'm not sure if I fell asleep. I guess I'm anxious about this whole process.
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11 PM update --- Similar to the other nap attempts, this one was also a bust. Tried to sleep for 20 of the 30 minutes and finally frustrated I just got up. c'est la vie. 2 AM! I'm counting on you. If not definitely by 6 AM I should be able to sleep.
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