The sleep industry is booming, with products like sunrise alarm clocks, advanced mattresses, REM-tracking devices, and melatonin subscriptions in high demand. But is investing heavily in these products the right approach for better sleep?
In the concluding episode of season 8 of the Quartz Obsession podcast, Rocio Fabbro interviews Dr. Michael Breus, a renowned clinical psychologist and sleep specialist, to unravel some pressing questions about sleep, including its importance and what our bodies experience during sleep.
Dr. Breus explains that the sleep landscape has shifted dramatically over the years, particularly due to inventions like the light bulb by Thomas Edison, which changed our natural sleep patterns. He notes that modern society is more stressed than ever, leading to increased rates of insomnia, which he attributes largely to environmental factors and lifestyle choices, such as excessive screen time, alcohol consumption, and even certain medications.
One key takeaway from their discussion is the impact of technology on sleep patterns. Dr. Breus warns against “doom scrolling” on phones, emphasizing that while the light from devices isn’t as harmful as many believe, the engagement in stimulating content can keep the mind from winding down. He suggests that creating a calm bedtime routine, potentially including watching TV from a distance, can help some individuals relax.
The conversation also delves into the cultural aspects of sleep, highlighting how practices like siestas in Latin American cultures affect sleep schedules. Dr. Breus explains historical sleep patterns, such as the biphasic sleep style observed in medieval times, where people would awake in the night to perform tasks.
For those struggling with insomnia, Dr. Breus advocates for setting a consistent wake-up time every day and refraining from caffeine and alcohol in the evenings. He emphasizes that quality sleep matters more than just the number of hours slept, challenging the common belief that eight hours is universally required.
Dr. Breus also emphasizes the need for self-awareness and understanding one’s chronotype—essentially individual sleep preferences which can affect sleep quality. He advocates for practical tips like regular exercise and establishing a calming morning routine to help set the day on the right path.
As research continues to evolve, Dr. Breus expresses optimism for advancements in sleep medicine, such as tailored pharmaceutical approaches and the incorporation of AI in sleep studies. He stresses the importance of personal responsibility in improving sleep quality while remaining excited about future innovations.
Listeners are encouraged to take the Chronotype Quiz available on Dr. Breus’s website for personalized insights, helping them recognize the best ways to enhance their sleep health.