Welcome to Season 6 of Sleep Is My Waking Passion! In this episode, I sit down with Chris Thomas, pharmacist by day and ultra-marathon paddler by passion. Chris shares his incredible experiences tackling extreme endurance paddle races like the Yukon 1000 and Alabama 650, where sleep deprivation, physical exhaustion, and mental resilience are all part of the challenge.

Together, we explore:

Part 1:

• The unique demands of ultra-marathon paddle racing, from navigating 1,000-mile waterways to managing sleep in remote environments.
• The science behind sleep deprivation, its effects on cognition and performance, and strategies for recovery

And part 2:

• Tools and techniques like caffeine naps, sleep banking, breathing exercises, and even cutting-edge devices like Modia Sleep to optimize rest during intense races.

Chris opens up about his own sleep challenges during races, including moments of déjà vu and pushing through exhaustion with creative solutions. We also discuss how nutrition, teamwork, and preparation play a pivotal role in maximizing performance while staying safe.

Whether you're an athlete seeking tips for endurance sports or simply curious about the limits of human resilience, this episode offers a fascinating deep dive into the intersection of sleep science and extreme athleticism.

🔗 Join me for an inspiring conversation with Chris as we paddle through the uncharted waters of sleep deprivation and recovery!