Why can't I sleep even if I am tired?

Have you ever felt physically exhausted at the end of a long day, yet found it nearly impossible to fall asleep? Your muscles ache, your eyes are heavy, but as soon as your head hits the pillow, your mind suddenly springs to life, racing with thoughts that keep sleep at bay. Even after practicing good sleep hygiene—like dimming lights, avoiding screens, and relaxing before bed—you might still find yourself lying awake, wondering why sleep eludes you.?

This common problem is often rooted in the brain’s response to perceived threats. Sleep is a natural process designed to restore our bodies after a long day, but it can be disrupted if the mind detects danger. This protective mechanism dates back to our ancestors who had to stay alert for predators and other threats. While we no longer face the same physical dangers, our nervous system hasn’t fully adapted to modern life, where perceived threats can trigger the same fear response. These perceived threats can be anything from a distant noise to anxiety about the day ahead, and they can make it hard for the brain to relax into sleep.

A few days ago, I experienced sharp back pain that disrupted my sleep. I would wake up whenever I rolled onto my left side, and this led to a cycle of sleeplessness driven by the fear of encountering pain again. Despite trying relaxation techniques, I realized that my mind had unconsciously associated sleep with the risk of pain, and it was keeping me awake to avoid this perceived threat.?

Once I recognized this pattern, I began to dialogue with my mind, reassuring myself that sleeping on my right side or back was safe and that any pain would be temporary and manageable. This rational conversation with my mind allowed me to break the cycle. My body started to respond, and I finally felt the familiar heaviness of sleep returning.

If you find yourself in a similar situation—where you’re physically tired but unable to sleep—it might be worth exploring whether your mind has associated bedtime with some kind of danger, even if it’s only perceived. Understanding this connection and addressing it can help your mind relax, allowing you to drift off into a restful sleep.