Perform with Dr. Andy Galpin
Dr. Allison Brager: Improve Sleep Efficiency & Resilience
Mar 26, 2025
In this conversation with Dr. Allison Brager, an active-duty Army neuroscientist, listeners dive deep into the science of sleep resilience in extreme conditions like Antarctica and space. They explore how circadian rhythms affect performance, especially in sports, and the critical differences in sleep between men and women. Dr. Brager shares practical strategies for improving sleep through nutrition, light exposure, and even naps, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual chronotypes for better performance and well-being.
01:57:00
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Quick takeaways
- Dr. Allison Brager emphasizes the concept of sleep resilience, crucial for maintaining effective sleep patterns under extreme stress and varied situations.
- Circadian rhythm alignment significantly influences performance, with research indicating that West Coast athletes may have an advantage over their East Coast counterparts.
Deep dives
The Science of Sleep Resilience
Sleep resilience refers to an individual's ability to maintain effective sleep patterns despite varying situations and stressors. Dr. Allison Brager's research investigates how this concept can apply to diverse groups such as athletes and military personnel who often experience extreme conditions. For instance, her work includes studying sleep patterns in individuals deployed in Antarctica and astronauts in space, highlighting how environmental factors significantly impact sleep quality. By understanding sleep resilience, people can optimize their sleep and achieve a higher level of overall functioning in both personal and professional settings.
