The sleep industry is experiencing significant growth, fueled by a high demand for products aimed at improving rest quality—from state-of-the-art mattresses to sleep trackers and melatonin supplements. Despite this investment in sleep aids, many still struggle to understand the fundamental question: how much sleep do we actually need?
In the season finale of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro speaks with Dr. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist. The discussion touches on various aspects of sleep, including the reasons behind the booming market for sleep products, the efficacy of these items, and the importance of sleep in our lives. Dr. Breus notes a dramatic rise in insomnia, attributing it largely to modern stressors and the pervasive impact of technology.
Dr. Breus highlights key historical changes that have contributed to our current sleep challenges, such as the invention of the light bulb and the rise of shift work during the industrial era, which disrupted natural sleep patterns. As a result, many people sleep less or with more difficulty than in previous generations.
Rocio and Dr. Breus also explore the cultural contexts of sleep, discussing how different societies perceive and manage sleep cycles. Regional variations, such as the concept of siestas in Latin America, exemplify how cultural practices can shape sleep habits.
A significant takeaway from their conversation is the importance of understanding one’s sleep chronotype—an individual’s natural preference for sleep timing—which can greatly influence sleep quality. Dr. Breus explains that recognizing one’s biological predispositions can lead to better sleep outcomes.
Practical advice shared includes establishing consistent wake-up times, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, engaging in regular exercise, and promoting relaxation before bedtime. Dr. Breus emphasizes that quality of sleep often matters more than quantity, and he encourages listeners to focus on feelings of restfulness rather than striving for an arbitrary number of hours of sleep.
The episode concludes with a discussion about the future of sleep research, touching on advancements in pharmacology and technology, including potential AI applications in sleep medicine. Dr. Breus stresses the need for individuals to take responsibility for their sleep health by adopting foundational practices for better rest.