“The biggest contributor to poor sleep compared to 10 years ago, would be devices. Devices are toxic to sleep.” – Dr. Tony Fernando

With a varied background as a psychiatrist, sleep specialist, and academic, Dr. Tony Fernando is fuelled by kindness and compassion. He was once a practicing Buddhist monk, has recently completed his Ph.D. in Medical Compassion, and is currently teaching mindfulness to inmates at Mt Eden Prison in Auckland, New Zealand.

In Episode 13 of Open Minded, Sir John Kirwan chats to Dr. Tony Fernando about the most common sleep complaints, what causes them, and how to prevent them. It often boils down to having more compassion for ourselves, accepting what is, and taking our minds off the thing we want most – sleep. Fernando is the first to admit that this is easier said than done.

Tune in to this episode for useful strategies to relax into good sleep and answers to the following questions:

Owls, larks, and “middle people” – are different body clocks a disorder or genetic predisposition?
Do we really need 8 hours of sleep?
Why do I wake up tired after a full night’s sleep?
I’m waking up in the middle of the night – what can I do about it?
Does an afternoon nap make me lazy?
How can I support my team who work night shifts?
And more…

Watch the full video interview

“I became really interested in medicine, teaching and service because I know that when we are kind and do good work for others and ourselves, it gives us a lot of meaning.” – Dr. Tony Fernando

Who is Tony Fernando?

Tony is a psychiatrist, sleep specialist, and academic. He has published in local and international research journals in sleep medicine and medical compassion. He has also been awarded multiple teaching awards by medical students and the Faculty of Medicine from the University of Auckland.

In 2012, he was awarded by President Aquino of the Philippines for his services to sleep medicine and medical education. In 2015, he received The Chair’s Award by the New Zealand Medical Association, the highest recognition given by the association to any doctor in New Zealand, for his work on doctor’s wellbeing.

Tony is a regular guest sleep expert on TV and radio programs. His work on the science of happiness and the importance of mindfulness has also brought him a considerable public following.

Listen to Episode 13 to find out the secret to a good nights sleep.

Listen now

TRIGGER WARNING: This podcast mentions miscarriage.

If you or someone you know is in need of support, please contact Beyond Blue in Australia on 1800 512 348 and for New Zealand, you can free call or text 1737 to talk. These support lines are free, and available 24/7.