The sleep industry is flourishing, with a plethora of products aimed at improving our quality of rest, including high-tech gadgets, luxurious mattresses, and supplements. However, amid this booming market, experts question whether investing heavily in these items is truly necessary for better sleep.
In the latest episode of the Quartz Obsession podcast, sleep specialist Dr. Michael Breus shares insights on why sleep is becoming increasingly elusive in modern society. Dr. Breus explains that insomnia has evolved significantly, attributing much of today’s sleep issues to stress and constant distractions, which can interrupt our ability to wind down at night.
Historically, sleep disorders were not a concern before the industrial revolution, when natural lighting dictated our sleep patterns. With inventions like the light bulb and the rise of overtime work, sleep disorders became more prevalent, coupled with increased work pressures and financial incentives to work longer hours.
Dr. Breus highlights that nearly 75% of insomnia cases stem from stress or depression, while the remaining 25% come from environmental factors like increased screen time or changes in lifestyle habits. He expresses concern that people often overlook the impact of their daily choices on sleep quality, such as late-night phone use or alcohol consumption.
To tackle insomnia, Dr. Breus emphasizes the importance of routines, particularly regarding wake-up times. He advocates for a consistent wake-up time every day, which significantly influences the production of melatonin—our sleep hormone. Additionally, he encourages listeners to adopt healthier habits, like limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, exercising regularly, and managing stress effectively.
Dr. Breus also introduces the concept of chronotypes, referring to our natural sleep-wake preferences—some people function better as “early birds” while others are more productive at night. Understanding these individual differences can help tailor sleep strategies to improve overall restfulness.
As the episode concludes, Dr. Breus offers several practical tips for better sleep, emphasizing small lifestyle changes that can lead to significant improvements in sleep quality over time. He concludes with hope for future advancements in sleep science, particularly through AI-driven therapies that can assist with insomnia.
The conversation underlines a critical reality: while the sleep industry continues to grow, taking personal responsibility for our sleep health is paramount for achieving a restful night’s sleep.