The sleep industry is thriving, targeting individuals eager to improve their rest through various products like smart clocks, high-end mattresses, and sleep-tracking devices. The question arises: should we be spending so much in pursuit of better sleep?
In the latest episode of Quartz Obsession, we turn to a sleep specialist for insights on this booming market and its implications for our health. Dr. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep expert, shares his expertise on insomnia and effective techniques to help people achieve restorative sleep.
Rocio Fabbro, the season eight host, opens the discussion by highlighting the increasing prevalence of sleep disorders and the overwhelming range of products designed to aid sleep. Dr. Breus attributes the rise of insomnia to stressors exacerbated by modern life, suggesting that the root causes are often psychological, environmental, and tied to our lifestyles.
Dr. Breus explains how past innovations, like the light bulb, disrupted natural sleep patterns by extending working hours into the night. He notes that our current understanding of insomnia has evolved, emphasizing the role of mental health and the effects of technology and late-night habits.
A major takeaway from the conversation is that not all commonly held beliefs about sleep are accurate. For instance, many people think they need a strict eight hours, but individual needs vary. Instead, Dr. Breus advises focusing on how you feel after waking.
Practical advice includes maintaining a consistent wake-up time, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake before bedtime, and avoiding screens or engaging activities that could heighten anxiety before sleep. Notably, Dr. Breus emphasizes the importance of regulating morning routines to better control sleep cycles.
Overall, the episode reveals a nuanced understanding of sleep, debunking myths and encouraging listeners to prioritize quality over quantity. Dr. Breus advocates for being proactive in managing sleep health and recognizing the individual nature of sleep needs, suggesting that lifestyle changes can lead to significant improvements in sleep quality.