There is significant financial opportunity in the sleep industry, evidenced by products like sunrise alarm clocks, luxury mattresses, REM-tracking wearables, and regular melatonin deliveries. But the question remains: is it wise to invest heavily in the quest for better sleep?
In the final episode of Season 8 of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro engages Dr. Michael Breus, a renowned sleep specialist, to discuss several pressing questions surrounding sleep: Why is there such a demand for sleep-related products? Do these products genuinely help us? Why is sleep essential? And what occurs in our brains and bodies during sleep?
Dr. Breus highlights the alarmingly rising rates of insomnia and how modern life complicates our sleep health. He attributes much of the rise in sleep disorders to stress, increased screen time, and lifestyle choices, suggesting that a staggering 75% of insomnia cases involve stress or depression.
The conversation delves into how people’s sleep routines have transformed over the decades, from the biphasic sleep patterns of historical agrarian societies to today’s continuous night shifts and variable bedtimes. Dr. Breus also discusses the misconception that everyone needs eight hours of sleep, advocating for a focus on individual sleep quality rather than simply on the number of hours.
As Rocio shares her struggles with sleep and the distractions of phone use at night, Dr. Breus advises against late-night screen engagement and emphasizes the importance of creating a calming bedtime routine. He explains that the proximity of screens affects sleep quality more negatively than previously acknowledged.
Listeners are provided practical steps to improve their sleep, including the importance of regular wake-up times, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, and the role of exercise in maintaining good sleep health.
The discussion ends with Dr. Breus sharing insights into his unique approach to sleep science and his commitment to helping others understand the relationship between mental health, anxiety, and sleep.