There is a lucrative market surrounding sleep, with products like sunrise alarm clocks, high-end mattresses, sleep-tracking wearables, and monthly melatonin subscriptions gaining popularity. However, one has to wonder if such investments lead to genuinely better sleep.
This week, in the final episode of Season 8 of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro consults Dr. Michael Breus, a distinguished sleep expert, to address crucial questions about sleep. Together, they explore why there is such significant market demand for sleep-related products, the effectiveness of these items, the importance of sleep, and what occurs within our brains and bodies during sleep.
Dr. Breus highlights the evolution of insomnia and sleep issues, stating that the advent of the light bulb by Thomas Edison significantly altered sleep patterns, creating the nighttime hours conducive to work and leading to increased sleep disorders. He notes that stress plays a major role in insomnia today, with 75% of cases linked to stress and depression, while the remaining 25% are attributed to environmental factors, like excessive screen time and substance use.
Rocio shares her own struggles with sleep, particularly the temptation to scroll through social media when restless. Dr. Breus warns against this behavior, as engaging with screens can heighten anxiety and interfere with the ability to fall asleep. Instead, he suggests creating a restful environment and limiting distractions before bedtime.
Dr. Breus, who has a PhD in clinical psychology, discusses his unique approach that combines psychological insights with medical knowledge, enabling him to effectively meet patients’ needs regarding sleep issues. He encourages listeners to understand their “chronotype,” which determines optimal sleeping and waking times based on genetic predispositions.
He emphasizes the significance of establishing a consistent wake-up time to enhance overall sleep quality. Additionally, Dr. Breus shares practical tips for improving sleep habits, such as avoiding caffeine after 2 PM, refraining from alcohol three hours before bedtime, and engaging in regular exercise.
The conversation touches on cultural variations in sleep, with Dr. Breus noting that in some cultures, such as in Latin America, daytime napping is common, which influences nighttime sleep schedules. The historical concept of biphasic sleep is mentioned as well, where people would often wake during the night, do light tasks, and then return to sleep.
Looking ahead, Dr. Breus anticipates advancements in treatments for insomnia, touching upon promising research in genetics and pharmaceuticals as well as innovative technology-based solutions that could reshape our understanding of sleep and insomnia management.
In summary, listeners are encouraged to keep exploring their sleep habits, educating themselves on effective methods for improving sleep quality, and embracing the interplay of lifestyle and rest for better overall health.