The sleep industry is thriving, offering a range of products from sunrise alarm clocks to advanced mattresses and sleep-tracking wearables. However, amidst this boom, many are questioning whether investing in these products truly leads to better sleep.
In the latest episode of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro discusses the complex relationship society has with sleep. She interviews Dr. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist who clears up common sleep misconceptions and offers insights into how modern life impacts our ability to rest.
Dr. Breus explains that insomnia has evolved over the years, largely influenced by technological advancements and societal stressors. He traces the origins of sleep disorders back to inventions like the light bulb, which disrupted natural sleep patterns, and points to the modern struggle of constant distractions from screens that keep people awake at night.
Stress is identified as a primary contributor to insomnia, with Dr. Breus asserting that a significant portion of sleep-related issues stems from anxiety and depression. Moreover, he highlights how sleep affects overall health — nearly every organ system is influenced by sleep, making it vital for physical and mental well-being.
Fabbro and Dr. Breus delve into various sleep-related topics, addressing the effectiveness of traditional sleep aids versus cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia. Dr. Breus notably emphasizes that while medication has its place, CBT can provide long-term strategies to improve sleep. He outlines practical steps for better sleep hygiene, including maintaining a consistent wake-up time, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, and engaging in regular exercise.
They explore the cultural variations in sleep practices, revealing that certain societies embrace practices like afternoon napping, which contrasts with the rigid sleep schedules common in Western cultures. Dr. Breus also discusses the concept of chronotypes — individual sleep preferences that are genetically determined — and their implications for optimizing sleep habits.
As the conversation wraps up, Dr. Breus shares advice for listeners suffering from insomnia, underscoring the importance of understanding one’s sleep patterns and seeking professional help if necessary. He encourages the audience to take an online chronotype quiz to discover their unique sleep profiles.
With growing awareness around sleep’s significance, the episode addresses common misconceptions, such as the assumption that everyone requires eight hours of sleep. Dr. Breus clarifies that quality of sleep often matters more than quantity and encourages listeners to focus on how they feel upon waking.
The exchange ends on a hopeful note, as Dr. Breus expresses excitement for future advancements in sleep research and technology, which may lead to more effective treatments and better understanding of sleep health.
Listeners are encouraged to utilize the insights shared in the episode to foster a healthier relationship with sleep, emphasizing that achieving restorative rest is achievable with the right practices and knowledge.