Before we get into sleep training, let me bring a different perspective on sleep. Sleep is more important than food. I personally have friends and know others who have successfully completed forty day water fasts. David Blaine, a famous magician and illusionist, completed a 44 day water fast televised. The longest time someone has gone without sleep (documented) is 11 days. In the immediate sense, sleep is even more important than water. I’ve personally done 24-36 hour complete fasts (no food or water) quite easily. However, the consequences of sleep deprivation at 24 hours is comparable to the cognitive impairment of someone with a blood alcohol content of .10 percent. Basic cognitive functions begin breaking down after just one night of lost sleep. It’s vitally important you don’t go without sleep!