Busy Brain Keeping You Awake? Shuffle Your Way to Sleep

Break the Thinking Loop: How Cognitive Shuffling Can Help You Fall Asleep

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a loop of thoughts just as you’re trying to fall asleep? You’re not alone. As a MINDBODY coach, I often hear how racing minds steal precious rest. One powerful (and surprisingly simple) tool I love to share is called cognitive shuffling.

Cognitive shuffling helps “outsmart” your brain’s tendency to overthink. Instead of trying to force yourself to sleep (which rarely works), you gently redirect your mind by feeding it random, unrelated words or images...think “apple,” “mountain,” “chair,” “river.” The key is that these words don’t connect logically. This random pattern confuses your brain just enough to interrupt the endless looping thoughts that keep you awake.

Here’s how to try it tonight:

• Close your eyes and pick a simple word, like “bed.”

• Think of other words that start with “b” — “ball,” “butterfly,” “breeze”...slowly and casually.

• If your mind wanders (and it will), gently return to the task.

• You’re aiming for light, random thinking....not problem-solving.

By focusing on non-emotional, unconnected words, your brain shifts away from stress and slips more easily into sleep.

It’s a small, natural shift that can make a big difference...and best of all, it’s right there when you need it, no special "tools" required.

Try it, and let me know how it goes...sweet dreams!

...and that's Sunday's Food for Thought!

Jodi