The sleep industry is booming, driven by the increasing concern over sleep-related issues. With products ranging from advanced mattresses to melatonin subscriptions, the market for better sleep is thriving. But are these investments truly justified?
In the latest episode of the Quartz Obsession podcast, sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus shares insights into this vast industry. He addresses common queries about sleep, including the reasons behind our sleep needs, the psychology of insomnia, and the biological processes during sleep.
Dr. Breus explains that our understanding of insomnia has evolved over the years, particularly influenced by cultural shifts since the Industrial Revolution. He attributes much of today’s sleep struggles to increased stress and lifestyle changes that include excessive screen time and the prevalence of substances like alcohol and cannabis.
Listeners learn that many struggle with ‘doom scrolling’ their phones instead of getting proper rest, a habit that often worsens sleep issues. Breus emphasizes the need for calm, disengaging activities before bedtime.
Historical practices like biphasic sleep, where individuals would wake mid-night to work, are out of sync with today’s lifestyles. However, Breus notes that waking up for various reasons during the night is a natural biological response and can be managed more effectively with proper techniques and habits.
Breus offers practical advice to improve sleep, including setting consistent wake times, avoiding caffeine late in the day, and incorporating exercise into daily routines. He encourages listeners to trust their feelings of being rested rather than fixating on arbitrary sleep duration, underlining that quality of sleep often matters more than quantity.
The podcast also touches upon current advancements in sleep medicine, particularly in understanding genetic components of sleep. Ongoing research aims to develop more precise medications tailored to individuals’ unique sleep needs.
Ultimately, Dr. Breus advocates for personal responsibility in maintaining sleep health and urges individuals to adopt beneficial practices to achieve better rest.