The sleep industry is thriving, with numerous products designed to help individuals achieve better rest, from sunrise alarm clocks to high-tech sleep trackers and melatonin supplements. However, many people remain confused about their sleep needs and the efficacy of these products.
In the final episode of Season 8 of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro engages with Dr. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist. This episode dives into several pressing issues related to sleep, including the following pivotal questions: Why is there such a substantial market for sleep-related products? Can these products genuinely assist with achieving better sleep? What physiological changes occur in our brains and bodies during sleep and dreaming?
Dr. Breus explains that the modern understanding of insomnia has evolved significantly due to societal changes, particularly stress related to personal and professional life, exacerbated by innovations like artificial light which disrupt our natural sleep patterns. Historically, prior to the industrial revolution, fewer sleep disorders existed. However, as people began to work longer hours and adjust their lifestyle to different lighting conditions, insomnia became widespread.
The discussion highlights how technology and stress are major contributors to insomnia today. Dr. Breus points out that many people engage in “doom scrolling” on their phones at night, which not only hinders their ability to fall asleep but also disrupts their sleep quality. Instead, he recommends creating an environment conducive to relaxation to promote better sleep.
Listeners are encouraged to explore Dr. Breus’s Chronotype Quiz, a tool designed to help individuals identify their genetic sleep preferences, thereby optimizing their sleep patterns based on their unique needs. Understanding chronotypes can provide insights into the best times to wake up, sleep, and even engage in daily activities for better overall health.
To combat insomnia, Dr. Breus shares practical tips for improving sleep quality, including setting a consistent wake-up time, moderating caffeine and alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, and establishing a tranquil bedtime routine. He emphasizes that successful sleep is not merely quantitative—achieving eight hours but rather qualitative—feeling rested and alert upon waking.
As sleep research continues to advance, there is hope for better sleep solutions that incorporate both pharmacological and behavioral strategies, especially with the integration of AI and innovative devices that promote relaxation.
Overall, the conversation reinforces that while the obstacles to achieving good sleep may feel daunting, implementing small, manageable changes can pave the way to improved sleep quality and a better life overall.