The business of sleep is flourishing, with a wide array of products such as sunrise alarm clocks, luxury mattresses, REM-tracking devices, and melatonin subscriptions vying for consumers’ attention. However, the question remains: are these investments truly beneficial for our sleep quality?
In the latest episode of the podcast “Quartz Obsession,” host Rocio Fabbro engages with renowned sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus to address key issues surrounding sleep. They explore the expansive sleep market, the effectiveness of various sleep products, the necessity of sleep, and the complex processes our brains and bodies undergo during slumber.
Dr. Breus, a dual board-certified Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Sleep Specialist, shares invaluable insights into the evolving understanding of insomnia and its rising prevalence in today’s society. He attributes much of this increase to modern stresses and lifestyle choices, such as excessive screen time, alcohol consumption, and a lack of consistent sleep schedules.
Listeners are encouraged to consider the negative effects of recreational screen use at night, commonly referred to as “doom scrolling.” Dr. Breus advises against keeping devices next to the bed, arguing that the engagement with stimulating content prevents the body from reaching a restful state. He does express some leniency towards television watching in the bedroom, as it often serves as a passive distraction.
The discussion also touches on the historical perspective of sleep, comparing contemporary practices to those in earlier times when biphasic sleep patterns were common. In agrarian societies, it was normal for individuals to break their sleep into two segments due to the extensive darkness during the night. Modern society has seemingly strayed from such practices, leading to more consolidated sleep demands.
Dr. Breus emphasizes the importance of personalized sleep strategies based on an individual’s “chronotype” – a term used to describe one’s natural sleep-wake preferences. Understanding whether you are an early bird or a night owl can guide better sleep habits and expectations.
As part of our quest for better sleep, Dr. Breus shares five simple steps that anyone can implement immediately: maintain a consistent wake-up time, limit caffeine and alcohol, prioritize physical exercise, and nurture good hydration habits—alongside exposing oneself to natural light in the morning.
Dr. Breus remains optimistic about future advancements in sleep medicine, including research into insomnia treatments and the potential roles of AI in enhancing sleep health. The conversation serves as a reminder of the critical need for self-awareness and discipline when it comes to sleep hygiene, which plays a pivotal role in overall well-being.