The sleep industry has seen significant growth, generating revenue from various products aimed at enhancing sleep, including advanced alarm clocks, high-quality mattresses, sleep-tracking devices, and melatonin supplements. However, with the proliferation of these products comes the question of their actual effectiveness and the essential nature of sleep itself.
In the final episode of season eight of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro engages with Dr. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist, about the complexities of sleep. Together, they delve into the pressing questions concerning the sleep market, its impact on our health, and what truly happens within our bodies during rest.
Dr. Breus shares insights into why insomnia has become a prevalent issue in modern society. He highlights that the shift in our understanding of sleep disorders coincides with societal changes, such as the advent of electric light and increased work hours that disrupt natural sleep patterns. He notes that stress and environmental factors also contribute significantly to insomnia, with a majority of cases linked to anxiety or depression.
Rocio discusses the impact of technology, particularly smartphones, on sleep quality. Dr. Breus emphasizes the importance of minimizing engagement with screens at night, which overstimulates the mind and can impede restful sleep.
Throughout the conversation, Dr. Breus explains the evolution of sleep practices and how cultural differences affect our relationship with sleep. He mentions the historical context of biphasic sleep and how modern lifestyles have shifted away from these patterns, leading to the rise of chronic sleep issues.
The discussion also touches on the importance of addressing sleep disorders through both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical methods. Dr. Breus advocates for cognitive behavioral therapy as a highly effective treatment for insomnia, potentially more impactful than medication alone.
In conclusion, Dr. Breus offers practical advice for improving sleep quality, recommending a consistent wake-up time, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, incorporating daily exercise, and creating a calming bedtime routine. By understanding our unique sleep patterns and developing healthy habits, individuals can significantly enhance their sleep quality and overall wellbeing.
Listeners are encouraged to explore personalized sleep solutions by taking Dr. Breus’s Chronotype Quiz, which assesses individual sleep preferences. As the episode wraps up, Rocio invites everyone to share the podcast with friends and subscribe for more insights into our daily obsessions.