613: A Practical Guide to Improving Your Sleep with Dr. Sujay Kansagra
Mar 27, 2024
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Dr. Sujay Kansagra, a sleep expert, discusses sleep hygiene, differences in kid vs. adult sleep, and when to seek medical help. Topics include sleep issues, children's sleep patterns, gender-based temperature preferences, sleep testing, and the benefits of yoga breathing.
Improving sleep quality involves cycling through light, deep, and REM phases, while focusing on sleep hygiene and recognizing signs of potential sleep problems.
Establishing a consistent nightly routine, maintaining a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding sleep disruptors are key aspects of improving sleep hygiene.
Deep dives
Understanding Sleep Challenges and Common Frustrations
People often struggle with sleep due to a plethora of conflicting information and a flood of products in the health and wellness industry. From mattresses to supplements, the abundance of options can make it challenging to address sleep issues effectively. Despite the array of solutions available, many individuals still face difficulties with sleep, indicating a gap between available products and actual sleep improvement strategies. This challenge underscores the importance of focusing on fundamental principles that apply universally to individuals of all ages, regardless of the numerous products and gadgets on the market.
Importance of Identifying and Addressing Sleep Issues
Identifying potential sleep problems revolves around recognizing indicators such as excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, mood changes, and attention issues. These symptoms can hint at underlying sleep quality or quantity issues, prompting individuals to pay attention to their overall well-being. While wearable devices like smartwatches provide insights into sleep duration, it is crucial to rely on personal feelings and experiences to gauge sleep quality. By understanding the signs of sleep problems and their impact on daily life, individuals can take proactive steps to address their sleep issues.
Factors Influencing Sleep Quality and Sleep Latency
When considering sleep quality, focusing on sleep stages, including non-REM and REM sleep, offers insights into different aspects of sleep health. Non-REM sleep comprises three stages, with deep sleep and REM sleep playing vital roles in restoring the body and mind. Contrary to popular belief, achieving quick sleep onset (sleep latency) is not the primary goal; instead, the emphasis should be on obtaining restful and rejuvenating sleep. Understanding the importance of various sleep stages and avoiding undue pressure on falling asleep quickly can contribute to overall sleep improvement and well-being.
Practical Tips for Enhancing Sleep Hygiene and Sleep Environment
Improving sleep hygiene involves establishing a consistent nightly routine, maintaining a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding substances that disrupt sleep, such as caffeine and light exposure. Adhering to a regular sleep schedule and refraining from engaging in stimulating activities in the bedroom can enhance sleep quality. Additionally, creating a relaxing sleep sanctuary by associating the bedroom with rest and relaxation can contribute to better sleep outcomes. By implementing these practical tips and prioritizing sleep hygiene, individuals can optimize their sleep environment for improved rest and overall well-being.
Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep per night, and we need good sleep quality as well, which means cycling through light, deep, and REM phases. While sleeping is the most natural of all human behaviors, many of us continue to struggle for a variety of reasons, including stress, anxiety, hormonal changes, and more. On this week’s podcast, you’ll meet a medical doctor whose work is focused on improving sleep for kids and adults.
Dr. Sujay Kansagra specializes in sleep medicine. He is Director of Duke University's Pediatric Neurology Sleep Medicine Program and author of a number of books, including My Child Won't Sleep: A Quick Guide for the Sleep-Deprived Parent.