People are increasingly investing in various products to enhance sleep quality, such as high-tech sleep aids, luxurious mattresses, and supplements like melatonin. However, the key question remains: Should we really be spending so much in pursuit of better sleep?
In the latest episode of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro engages with Dr. Michael Breus, a renowned sleep specialist, to tackle several pressing questions surrounding sleep. With insomnia rates climbing, the podcast explores the sprawling market dedicated to sleep and examines whether these products genuinely help, why sleep is essential, and what takes place in our bodies as we dream.
Dr. Breus explains that the modern understanding of insomnia has evolved significantly, largely due to societal changes since the invention of the light bulb by Thomas Edison, which disrupted natural sleep patterns. Historically, significant sleep disorders weren’t common, but the advent of artificial light led people to work at night, fostering sleep issues.
As technology continues to saturate our lives, Dr. Breus emphasizes that anxiety and stress play vital roles in sleep disturbances today, affecting individuals globally. He notes that environment and behaviors, such as excessive screen time before bed or consuming alcohol, can worsen sleep quality.
Rocio shares her struggles, revealing that she often resorts to her phone for distraction when sleepless. Dr. Breus strongly advises against this behavior, explaining the difference between passive background stimulation, like television, and active engagement on a phone, which can heighten anxiety and prevent sleep.
The conversation delves into Dr. Breus’s unique background as a PhD in clinical psychology with a focus on sleep medicine. He combines psychological principles with medical knowledge to better address the complex phenomena of insomnia.
As they discuss the historical perspectives on sleep, Dr. Breus highlights that different cultures have varying practices that affect sleep habits, such as the Latin American tradition of siestas. He outlines the significance of understanding and adapting sleep practices to align with one’s genetic chronotype—individual sleep preferences that can help optimize rest.
Listeners are also introduced to practical tips for improving sleep quality, including establishing a consistent wake-up time, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, engaging in regular physical activity, and allowing natural light exposure in the morning.
The episode concludes with Dr. Breus encouraging listeners to take his chronotype quiz, emphasizing that a better understanding of one’s unique sleep needs can lead to a significant improvement in sleep hygiene. Overall, the conversation underscores the importance of education, lifestyle changes, and mindful practices in fostering healthier sleep patterns.