Ancient Sleep Secrets explores pre-industrial sleep habits, offering a unique approach to modern sleep problems. It highlights how our ancestors achieved restorative sleep through practices like segmented sleep, or biphasic sleep, which involved two distinct sleep periods separated by wakefulness, and the use of herbal remedies. This historical context is vital, considering that before artificial light, sleep was attuned to natural light cycles. The book argues modern sleep disturbances stem from disconnecting from the natural environment and losing traditional sleep practices.
The book begins by introducing segmented sleep and herbal sleep aids, tracing their historical prevalence. It then details the science behind segmented sleep, exploring its physiological basis and potential benefits. A section focuses on herbal remedies, providing a guide to plants used for relaxation and sleep, including their historical use and safety considerations. The book synthesizes these practices with modern science, offering practical strategies for incorporating elements of ancient sleep into contemporary lifestyles.
