The sleep industry is experiencing significant growth, spurred by increasing concerns regarding sleep quality. With demand for products like sunrise alarm clocks, luxurious mattresses, REM-tracking wearables, and melatonin subscriptions on the rise, many are questioning whether investing so heavily in sleep aids is truly worthwhile.
In the finale of Season 8 of the Quartz Obsession podcast, Rocio Fabbro engages Dr. Michael Breus, a renowned sleep specialist and clinical psychologist, to explore the complexities of sleep and insomnia. They delve into several pressing questions about sleep, including its necessity, its impacts on our bodies and brains, and the efficacy of various sleep aids.
Dr. Breus explains that insomnia and sleep disturbances have evolved significantly, especially since the advent of electricity and extended working hours. Historically, sleep problems were less recognized, primarily due to simpler lifestyles that didn’t involve such constant distractions and stressors.
As modern society experiences heightened stress levels, Dr. Breus asserts that a vast majority of insomnia cases are related to stress or depression. He notes that environmental factors, such as increased screen time and the consumption of alcohol and cannabis, exacerbate sleep issues.
Rocio shares her own struggles with sleep, particularly noting her tendency to use her phone for distractions when restless. Dr. Breus cautions against this habit, emphasizing that engaging with stimulating content does not promote a restful state. Instead, he recommends creating a calming nighttime routine devoid of screen time.
Additionally, Dr. Breus highlights the historical notion of biphasic sleep—where individuals would wake in the night to engage in quiet activities—saying it reflects an era when work and sleep patterns were vastly different from today. He encourages people to aim for a single, uninterrupted sleep cycle, which tends to be more restorative than fragmented sleep.
The episode also touches upon common misconceptions about sleep duration, notably the erroneous belief that everyone requires eight hours. Dr. Breus emphasizes that quality of sleep trumps quantity, with each person needing different amounts depending on various factors, including their genetic predispositions.
To improve sleep quality, Dr. Breus offers several straightforward tips. He encourages consistent wake-up times, reduced caffeine and alcohol intake, and daily exercise while avoiding strenuous activities close to bedtime. The combination of these practices can significantly enhance sleep quality, provided they are followed diligently.
In closing, the discussion offers hope for more effective sleep solutions moving forward, fueled by ongoing research and emerging technologies. Dr. Breus underscores the importance of personal responsibility in managing sleep health, encouraging listeners to incorporate practical strategies into their routines for better sleep outcomes.