There is significant financial opportunity in the sleep industry, which encompasses a variety of products like sunrise alarm clocks, premium mattresses, REM-tracking devices, and subscription services for melatonin. As sleep-related issues become more common, many consumers question if investing in these products truly helps improve their sleep quality.
In the latest episode of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro interviews Dr. Michael Breus, a double board-certified clinical psychologist and clinical sleep specialist. Together, they discuss the growing market for sleep products and delve into crucial questions surrounding sleep, including its necessity, the science behind it, and the effectiveness of popular sleep gadgets.
Dr. Breus traces the evolution of insomnia from historical perspectives to modern-day concerns. He attributes much of today’s insomnia to increased stress and the disruptive effects of technology. He emphasizes that the advancements made during the industrial revolution, like the invention of the light bulb, significantly altered society’s sleep patterns.
The conversation shifts to practical insights on how to improve sleep quality, including the importance of consistent wake-up times, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, and incorporating daily exercise. Dr. Breus also shares his belief in understanding individual chronotypes—natural sleep preferences—suggesting that acknowledging one’s genetic predispositions can lead to better sleep outcomes.
Listeners are encouraged to adopt simple, actionable steps to reset their sleep cycles over a few weeks. The episode concludes with an optimistic view on the future of sleep research and technology, highlighting new advancements in pharmaceuticals and behavioral therapies.
For those interested in enhancing their sleep and overall well-being, Dr. Breus advises exploring these concepts further through his resources and quizzes available online.