The sleep industry is thriving, with various products such as sunrise alarm clocks, high-end mattresses, REM-tracking devices, and subscriptions for melatonin catering to those seeking better rest. However, it raises the question: is it wise to invest so heavily in these sleep aids?
In the concluding episode of Season 8 of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro speaks with Dr. Michael Breus, a well-respected expert in sleep medicine, to delve into several pressing questions about sleep:
1. Why do we have such a vast market focused on sleep?
2. Do any of these products genuinely enhance our ability to rest?
3. What is the biological necessity of sleep?
4. What occurs in our bodies and minds during sleep and dreams?
Dr. Breus provides valuable insights into the evolution of our understanding of insomnia, linking it to historical developments. He explains that sleep issues have escalated since the invention of the light bulb, which allowed people to extend their waking hours into the night. As a result, sleep disorders became more prevalent. He emphasizes that modern stress levels, along with environmental factors tied to technology and lifestyle choices, significantly affect sleep quality today.
Rocio discusses personal challenges with sleep and how common distractions, such as smartphones, contribute to sleeplessness. Dr. Breus underscores the importance of minimizing engaging activities before bedtime, suggesting that the constant stimulation we experience, like scrolling through social media, interferes with our ability to unwind.
In his practice, Dr. Breus merges clinical psychology with sleep medicine, enabling him to understand and address the psychological aspects of insomnia alongside its biological effects. He argues that sleep impacts all facets of health, making it crucial to recognize its role in overall well-being.
As the conversation unfolds, Dr. Breus provides a five-step plan for improving sleep, emphasizing the importance of consistent wake times, managing caffeine and alcohol consumption, exercising appropriately, and implementing morning routines that encourage wakefulness.
Looking ahead, Dr. Breus envisions an exciting future for sleep medicine, with advancements in pharmacology, AI-assisted therapies, and genetic research changing the landscape of how we approach sleep disorders. His conclusion urges individuals to take responsibility for their sleep health by adhering to foundational practices that can significantly enhance the quality of their rest.
For those interested in learning more about their sleep preferences, Dr. Breus invites listeners to take his “Chrono Quiz,” which helps identify individual sleep patterns.