There is significant potential for profit in the sleep industry, which includes products such as sunrise alarm clocks, high-end mattresses, REM-tracking devices, and regular melatonin subscriptions. However, this raises the question: is it wise to invest so much in the pursuit of a good night’s sleep?
In a recent episode, a sleep expert provides insight into the booming market and addresses common concerns regarding sleep. The discussion covers the reasons behind the demand for sleep products, the effectiveness of such products, the importance of sleep, and what occurs in our bodies and minds while we sleep.
Dr. Michael Breus, a renowned clinical psychologist and sleep specialist, shares his expertise on insomnia and offers practical suggestions for improving sleep quality. Rocio Fabbro, host of the Quartz Obsession podcast, joins him in exploring these topics.
Dr. Breus notes that insomnia is increasingly prevalent in modern society, exacerbated by stress and technological distractions that can keep people from winding down. He explains that our current understanding of insomnia has evolved significantly over time, pointing out that disruptions began with the advent of electric lighting and the expectation of longer working hours.
The expert emphasizes that a large proportion of insomnia cases is tied to stress and depression, while environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions also affect sleep quality. He cautions against the common habit of using smartphones at night, as it can contribute to sleep problems by engaging the mind and delaying relaxation.
Reflecting on his background, Dr. Breus describes how his dual expertise in psychology and sleep medicine allows him to address both the mental and biological aspects of sleep disturbances. He highlights the importance of combining medical insights with understanding mental health issues to improve treatment outcomes.
The conversation also touches on historical perspectives of sleep, like the biphasic sleep schedule prevalent in medieval times, where individuals would wake in the night to work or socialize before returning to bed. Dr. Breus explains that our biological rhythms have adapted over time, making it less common to follow such patterns today.
He offers actionable tips for better sleep, like maintaining a consistent wake-up time, reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, and practicing relaxation techniques. Dr. Breus underscores the necessity of recognizing one’s chronotype—whether one is a night owl or early bird—to optimize sleep habits.
As research in sleep medicine progresses, there are promising developments on the horizon, including new insomnia medications and technological advancements that could further enhance sleep quality.
In conclusion, prioritizing sleep and understanding its complexities is crucial for overall health, and individuals can take proactive steps to improve their sleep by implementing specific strategies and embracing new insights from ongoing research.