CIA ‘Polyphasic Sleep’ Method
The CIA’s polyphasic sleep method is a practice often employed by covert operatives in demanding environments to maintain vigilance and operational readiness when a full night’s sleep is not feasible.
The Measure
Operatives train their bodies to follow a consistent sleep rhythm, often referred to as the circadian rhythm. This involves going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day, regardless of weekends or changing time zones.
This consistency conditions the body to naturally awaken at a specific time. Additionally, operatives practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques before sleep to ensure a rapid onset and deep quality of sleep, aiding in more alert awakenings.
In environments lacking comfortable accommodations, such as during field operations, operatives adapt by optimizing their sleep environment as much as possible. This includes finding the most comfortable position available, using clothing or equipment as improvised pillows, and ensuring as much darkness and quiet as the situation permits.
