The sleep industry is experiencing significant growth, offering a plethora of products aimed at improving sleep, from high-tech devices to special mattresses and natural supplements like melatonin. However, this raises questions about whether such investments are truly beneficial for enhancing our rest.
In the latest episode of a podcast, host Rocio Fabbro speaks with Dr. Michael Breus, a renowned sleep expert, to explore the intricacies of sleep and its impact on our lives. They delve into inquiries about the expansive market for sleep products, the actual effectiveness of these items, and the reasons behind our need for sleep.
Dr. Breus highlights a concerning trend: the increasing rates of insomnia, influenced heavily by stress and lifestyle changes over the years. He discusses how technological advancements, particularly the invention of electric light, have dramatically altered our sleeping patterns, leading to a rise in sleep-related disorders.
As they discuss the nuances of modern sleep, Dr. Breus explains that stress contributes to about 75% of insomnia cases, compounded by chaotic schedules and excessive screen time. He emphasizes the crucial relationship between sleep and overall health, noting that good sleep positively affects every system in the body.
Rocio shares her personal struggle with sleep, admitting to using her phone as a distraction during sleepless nights. Dr. Breus advises against such habits, explaining that engaging with devices can hinder the body’s natural ability to wind down. Instead, he suggests creating a calming environment that allows the mind to relax.
The conversation shifts to cultural aspects of sleep, where Dr. Breus points out historical practices such as biphasic sleep, common in medieval times when people would wake in the night to do work or socialize before returning to rest. He explains how our biological needs have shifted in response to our societal changes.
Throughout their discussion, Dr. Breus offers practical advice for improving sleep quality, including establishing a consistent wake-up time, managing caffeine and alcohol intake, and engaging in light exercise. He underlines the importance of creating a routine that aligns with an individual’s chronotype, a concept he has studied extensively.
As the conversation wraps up, Dr. Breus calls for a shift in how we perceive and treat sleep issues, advocating for a combination of lifestyle changes, understanding of one’s natural body rhythms, and, when necessary, medical intervention. He expresses optimism for the future of sleep medicine, with advancements in research and technology paving the way for improved outcomes for those struggling with sleep disorders.