The sleep industry is experiencing a significant boom, driven by products like smart alarm clocks, high-end mattresses, sleep trackers, and melatonin subscriptions. However, the question remains: are these investments worth it for improved sleep quality?
In the latest episode of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro engages with Dr. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and recognized sleep expert, to explore the complexities of sleep. Together, they address key questions surrounding the booming sleep market: Why is there extensive demand for sleep aids? Do these products significantly contribute to better sleep? What physiological processes occur during sleep?
Dr. Breus highlights the evolution of insomnia and associated challenges in contemporary society. He notes that the introduction of electric light greatly transformed sleep patterns, increasing sleep disorders as people began to work longer hours, especially at night. Stress, especially in modern life, accounts for a notable percentage of insomnia cases today, while environmental factors, such as increased screen time and substance use, exacerbate the problem.
The conversation reveals how common habits, like using phones before bed, can hinder sleep. Dr. Breus emphasizes that engagement with smartphones can disrupt the process of winding down before sleep, advocating for better practices, including adopting a consistent bedtime routine.
Dr. Breus also shares insights into historical practices regarding sleep, explaining how cultures have different perspectives on sleep duration and patterns, like the traditional practice of biphasic sleep in agrarian societies.
As they discuss the medical side of insomnia, Dr. Breus advocates for the value of cognitive behavioral therapy tailored for sleep issues, emphasizing the importance of addressing thought patterns and behaviors associated with insomnia over relying solely on medication.
He outlines practical strategies for improving sleep, such as consistent wake-up times, regulating caffeine and alcohol intake, maintaining an exercise routine, and emphasizing hydration and exposure to sunlight upon waking.
Overall, the episode offers a thorough analysis of sleep, inviting listeners to rethink their habits and understand the vital role that both psychological and environmental factors play in achieving restorative rest.