[rgoodwintx]

Interestingly enough, I've recently found a couple of similar triggers. (Lifelong sleep issues, getting and staying asleep.)

- Thinking about a conversation (real or otherwise) between two OTHER people (I can't be involved), or - counting down backward and visualizing the numbers, but I have to visualize them floating above and behind my head (i.e. not floating in space, or looking directly at them (figuratively speaking)

Both scenarios, when they engage, seem like they trigger an almost physical sensation of the brain shifting modes. I'm sure someone has a reasoned explanation for this, but, crazy as it sounds, when I notice the thoughts seem to be "behind my head" I know it's working and I'll drop off to sleep shortly after. (This is imperfect, and I still don't have restful sleep, but anything that aids is still helpful.)