The sleep industry is booming, spurred by the growing recognition of the importance of sleep and the myriad of products aimed at enhancing it. From high-tech gadgets and sleep trackers to premium mattresses and melatonin supplements, the market offers plenty of options. However, questions remain about the effectiveness of these products and the overall necessity of investing heavily in sleep solutions.
In the final episode of season eight of The Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro engages sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus to explore various aspects of sleep, including the reasons behind the market’s expansion, the actual benefits of popular sleep products, and the vital role sleep plays in our health.
Dr. Breus, a renowned Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Sleep Specialist, shares insights into how society’s understanding of insomnia has evolved. He explains that the advent of artificial lighting and changes in work patterns have significantly impacted sleep quality. Stress, exacerbated by modern distractions, has also been a primary contributor to rising insomnia rates.
Fabbro and Breus discuss the implications of contemporary lifestyles on sleep, including the risks associated with technology use before bed. Dr. Breus offers practical advice for achieving better sleep, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual chronotypes—biological predispositions that dictate optimal sleep patterns.
They delve into historical perspectives on sleep, noting practices such as biphasic sleep common in agrarian societies. Dr. Breus highlights that while many today experience fragmented sleep, improving sleep quality can often be achieved through behavioral changes rather than medication alone.
Additionally, the podcast addresses common misconceptions about sleep, such as the myth that everyone needs eight hours of sleep. Dr. Breus encourages listeners to focus on how they feel upon waking rather than adhering to a strict number of hours.
In closing, the discussion reinforces the idea that managing sleep is a personal journey requiring self-awareness and proactive measures. By understanding one’s unique sleep needs and making adjustments, individuals can drastically improve overall well-being.