The sleep industry is booming, capitalizing on a growing public interest in improving sleep quality through various products such as sunrise alarm clocks, high-end mattresses, sleep trackers, and melatonin supplements. However, the big question remains: should we be investing so much in pursuit of better sleep?
To address these concerns, a recent episode of the Quartz Obsession podcast features Dr. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep expert, who offers insights into modern sleep challenges. Host Rocio Fabbro engages Dr. Breus in a discussion focused on the expansive sleep market, the effectiveness of sleep aids, and the fundamental reasons why sleep is necessary.
Dr. Breus explains that insomnia rates are climbing, particularly in a world filled with stress and distractions. He attributes a significant role of insomnia to modern societal pressures, noting that many individuals may experience sleep disturbances due to environmental factors like excessive screen time and the consumption of stimulants or substances that disrupt sleep patterns.
Interestingly, Dr. Breus argues that not everyone requires the traditional eight hours of sleep that is often recommended. He emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity when it comes to sleep, encouraging listeners to aim to wake up feeling rested rather than focusing on specific sleep hour quotas.
In discussing how society’s understanding of sleep has evolved, Dr. Breus cites historical practices that involved biphasic sleep, where people would wake in the night for work or social activities, a stark contrast to contemporary sleep habits shaped by technology and industrialization.
He also highlights the significance of individual chronotypes—innate preferences for being a “morning person” or a “night owl.” Understanding one’s chronotype can greatly affect sleep quality. Dr. Breus encourages listeners to take a chronotype quiz designed to tailor their sleep and wake schedules to their natural inclinations.
Practical advice from Dr. Breus includes maintaining a consistent wake-up time, limiting caffeine intake after noon, and avoiding alcohol three hours before bedtime. He advocates for regular physical exercise while cautioning against strenuous activity too close to bedtime.
For those suffering from chronic insomnia, Dr. Breus highlights cognitive behavioral therapy as an effective non-pharmaceutical approach to addressing sleep issues. He points out that understanding cognitive distortions—misleading thoughts about sleep—can help individuals change their sleep behaviors for the better.
In conclusion, while the sleep industry thrives on the quest for better rest, understanding the underlying factors influencing sleep and addressing them through practical strategies can lead to significant improvements in sleep quality and overall health.