A Therapist Takes Her Own Advice
A Therapist Takes Her Own Advice is a podcast about healing from the inside out. When traditional treatments for depression stopped working, psychotherapist Rebekah Shackney turned to alternative medicine, breathwork, and spiritual practices to find her way forward.
Each episode offers honest conversations about emotional healing, trauma recovery, and the often nonlinear path to feeling whole. Whether you’re a fellow therapist, a seeker, or someone navigating your own transformation, this show offers insight, tools, and community for the journey.
https://rebekahshackney.com
Produced by David DibS Shackney.
Photo by David DibS Shackney
A Therapist Takes Her Own Advice
Meditation: Relax into Sleep with Bilateral Stimulation
Episode Title: Relax into Sleep with Bilateral Stimulation
Welcome to A Therapist Takes Her Own Advice. I’m Rebekah Shackney, and in this episode, I’m guiding you through a sleep meditation designed to gently activate your parasympathetic nervous system using slow bilateral stimulation—an approach that engages both sides of the brain to promote deep relaxation and rest.
For best results, listen with headphones as you settle into bed. Many find this practice helps them ease into a calmer state and fall asleep more easily.
Please Note: This meditation may not be suitable for those currently experiencing migraines, recent head trauma, or dissociative identity disorder, as it could potentially worsen symptoms. If you have any concerns, consult your healthcare provider before listening.
💌 Connect with Me:
🌿 Website: rebekahshackney.com
🎙️ Instagram (podcast): @atherapisttakesherownadvice
🎧 Listen on:
• Pandora
• Apple Podcasts
• Or visit: rebekahshackney.com/podcast
If this episode resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to reach out, leave a review, or share it with someone who could use a little more peace today.
To learn more about DBT group therapy with Rebekah Shackney LCSW, go to https://rebekahshackney.com/groups
Welcome to A Therapist Takes Her Own Advice! Don't forget to like and subscribe!
Instagram: ATherapistTakesHerOwnAdvice
www.RebekahShackney.com
Today, I’m offering a meditation for sleep that uses bilateral stimulation, meaning it stimulates both sides of the brain to help trigger your para-sympathetic nervous system and increase relaxation. For optimal use, listen to this meditation with headphones. This type of slow bilateral stimulation typically results in a deep calm, helping to relax into sleep. However, it’s not recommended for those with current migraines, head trauma or dissociative identity disorder as it might exacerbate those conditions. If you have a question speak with your medical professional before using this meditation. Prepare for sleep and let’s begin…
1. Breathe slowly and deeply allowing your mind and body to calm.
2. release the day with all its thoughts and worries—give yourself permission to rest
3. You can fully surrender knowing you are unconditionally supported by the bed beneath you.
4. Every breath you take invites in calm and releases tension
5. You have nowhere to go and nothing to do
6. Your thoughts are slowing down, and your body is relaxing
7. Your body knows how to rest, let your breath be the guide
8. Sleep will come—you don’t have to force it
9. You are safe, you are grounded, you can let go
10. your bed is a sanctuary, and you are safe here
11. let peace wash over you like a gentle tide leaving you completely relaxed
12. May your dreams be filled with peace and comfort.