The sleep industry is thriving, as evidenced by the growing market for products aimed at improving sleep, such as advanced alarm clocks, high-end mattresses, sleep trackers, and melatonin supplements. However, there’s an ongoing debate about whether we should invest so much in these sleep aids.
In the latest episode of the Quartz Obsession podcast, the discussion revolves around sleep and features insights from sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus. Rocio Fabbro, the host, seeks to answer pressing questions about the sleep industry, including the reasons behind its growth, the efficacy of various products, the importance of sleep, and the biological processes that occur during our sleep cycles.
Dr. Breus highlights that insomnia is a growing concern today, which he attributes largely to societal stress and distractions from technology. Historically, insomnia was not recognized as an issue until changes in work practices and the advent of artificial lighting began affecting sleep patterns. Furthermore, he notes that the experience of sleep has dramatically changed over the decades, leading people to have varying bedtimes and sleeping arrangements.
One of the primary causes of insomnia today is undue stress, he claims, with other contributory factors including lifestyle choices like late-night screen time and alcohol consumption. He emphasizes that having devices nearby, particularly phones, can hinder our ability to relax and sleep, advocating for healthier pre-sleep habits.
Dr. Breus also discusses the genetic aspect of sleep preferences, known as chronotypes, and the historical context of sleep patterns, such as the biphasic sleep schedule of medieval times. He notes that while our ancestors might have woken up to perform tasks in the night, modern lifestyles don’t accommodate such practices anymore.
He emphasizes the significance of understanding one’s own body and sleep needs rather than adhering to arbitrary sleep duration myths. For example, it is commonly believed that everyone requires eight hours of sleep, which he dismisses as overly simplistic.
Dr. Breus shares practical tips for improving sleep, encouraging people to maintain consistent wake times, reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, and incorporate physical activity into daily routines. He advises against the use of electronic devices before sleep, suggesting that relaxation techniques, rather than stimulation, are crucial for winding down.
As research in sleep medicine evolves, Dr. Breus anticipates advancements in both pharmaceutical and cognitive behavioral therapy approaches to treating insomnia. He believes that understanding individual sleep patterns and needs will lead to more effective solutions in the future.
With a focus on individual responsibility and self-education, Dr. Breus encourages people to take charge of their sleep health, with the assurance that simple changes can yield significant improvements in sleep quality.