There is a growing market for sleep-related products, including advanced alarm clocks, luxurious mattresses, sleep-monitoring devices, and melatonin subscriptions. As the sleep industry expands, questions arise about the efficacy and necessity of these investments.
In the season finale of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro speaks with Dr. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist, to try to understand the complexities of sleep. They discuss the substantial market surrounding sleep and the actual benefits of various sleep products, as well as the critical need for sleep and the processes our bodies undergo during rest.
Dr. Breus sheds light on how our understanding of insomnia has evolved. He attributes the rise in sleep disorders to several modern inventions, starting with Thomas Edison’s light bulb, which changed societal sleep patterns. Historically, before the industrial revolution, sleep disorders were rare, as people adhered to natural rhythms dictated by daylight.
As the conversation progresses, Dr. Breus highlights the impact of stress on sleep quality. He notes that approximately 75% of insomnia cases are associated with stress and depression. Increased screen time, late-night activities, and the changing atmosphere of modern life have also contributed to the deterioration of sleep quality.
Dr. Breus explains the physiological responses associated with insomnia and shares personal anecdotes of how he approaches his practice. He discusses the relevance of understanding one’s chronotype, which is a term that refers to an individual’s natural preference for mornings or evenings. He emphasizes that this genetic sleep preference can inform optimal sleep schedules.
The conversation also touches on historical practices of sleep. For instance, many people in medieval times adhered to a biphasic sleep schedule, characterized by periods of wakefulness during the night. Dr. Breus links this phenomenon to modern sleep disturbances and highlights common misconceptions surrounding how much sleep individuals actually need.
As they wrap up, Dr. Breus offers practical tips for improving sleep quality, underscoring the importance of regular sleep cycles. He advocates for developing consistent wake-up times, limiting caffeine and alcohol, exercising wisely, and engaging in calming morning routines. These practices can significantly enhance sleep quality.
Dr. Breus is optimistic about the future of sleep science, anticipating advancements in drug therapies and technology, including potential AI applications. Ultimately, he stresses the importance of personal responsibility in achieving better sleep outcomes.
The conversation ends with a reminder for listeners to explore their chronotypes and take actionable steps toward enhancing their sleep for improved overall well-being.