There is significant profit to be gained in the sleep industry, which offers a range of products like sunrise alarm clocks, luxury mattresses, REM-tracking devices, and subscription melatonin delivery. However, the question remains whether capitalizing on sleep can genuinely enhance our restfulness.
In a recent discussion with esteemed sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus, key inquiries about sleep were addressed, including: the reasons behind the booming sleep market, the effectiveness of existing sleep products, the necessity of sleep, and the brain and body activities during sleep.
Dr. Breus, who is both a clinical psychologist and a certified sleep specialist, expressed that our understanding of insomnia has evolved. He noted that while insomnia rates have surged, traditional sleep patterns have been disrupted by industrialization and the advent of the light bulb, which altered how we approach sleep. As modern society has embraced stress and environmental changes, insomnia has become more prevalent, with many individuals facing distractions from screens and substances like alcohol and cannabis.
Rocio Fabbro, the podcast host, highlighted the increasing anxiety and disruptions people encounter while trying to sleep. Dr. Breus explained that people often do not realize the importance of sleep and how the quality of sleep — rather than just the quantity — significantly impacts mental and physical health.
Interaction with technology, especially at night, can contribute to insomnia. Dr. Breus advised that using devices like phones before bed can hinder the ability to wind down. He suggested adopting calming activities before bedtime instead.
Dr. Breus shared insights into his background and how he combines psychological approaches with sleep medicine to treat patients effectively. He emphasized the importance of understanding individual biological sleep needs or chronotypes, and how these influence when one should sleep.
Addressing cultural differences, Dr. Breus pointed out that societal norms around sleeping patterns vary globally, advocating for personalized sleep strategies based on behavioral insights.
Importantly, Dr. Breus discussed the misconceptions often associated with sleep, including the fallacy that everyone needs precisely eight hours of sleep or that it’s beneficial for insomniacs to go to bed earlier. Instead, he recommended recognizing one’s sleep pattern and establishing a routine for better sleep hygiene.
He also mentioned the promising future of sleep research and advancements in insomnia treatment, including the use of AI for cognitive behavioral therapy and further exploration of genetic influences on sleep.
For those seeking practical solutions, Dr. Breus offered five key steps to improve sleep, which involve waking at the same time every day, moderating caffeine and alcohol intake, integrating exercise, and optimizing morning routines.
A strong emphasis was placed on personal responsibility in achieving better sleep through consistent habits and embracing effective techniques. Dr. Breus reassured listeners that improved sleep can lead to transformative changes in life quality.