Aric Prather

Dr. Aric Prather, a sleep expert and author, shares his insights on insomnia and its challenges. He emphasizes the importance of a consistent wake-up time to anchor your internal clock, rather than stressing about bedtime. The conversation also covers managing anxiety, with techniques like micro-breaks and scheduled worry time to calm the mind. Dr. Prather introduces innovative methods like Time-in-Bed Restriction, highlighting the paradox of spending less time in bed to improve sleep efficiency. This discussion is packed with practical strategies to enhance overall sleep quality.

Dr. Aric Prather, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of California, joins Kristen Holmes to discuss the impact of sleep on immune function and metabolic health, debunk sleep myths, and explore non-pharmacological methods for improving sleep.

Dr. Aric Prather, a UCSF sleep expert and professor, dives into the vital connection between sleep and immune health. He explains how inadequate sleep can elevate your risk of colds and diminish vaccine effectiveness. Dr. Prather also discusses chronic inflammation as a byproduct of sleep deprivation and how it complicates age-related diseases. The conversation highlights sleep as a powerful yet often ignored tool for boosting immunity, presenting actionable strategies for improving sleep quality to enhance overall health.

Sleep is fundamental to our survival. It’s kind of like oxygen, yet most of us don’t view these essential functions through the same lens. In order to perform at our best, live long & healthy lives, and to explore our potential… we have to put the same value on sleeping that we do breathing. Lucky for us, our guest today does exactly that - Dr. Aric Prather is a renowned professor, sleep scientist, clinical psychologist, and head of one of the world’s most successful sleep clinics at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Aric’s expertise lies in the fascinating world of sleep and its effects on our health and emotions.In his latest book, "The Sleep Prescription: Seven Days to Unlocking Your Best Rest," Aric offers a simple yet powerful plan to transform your sleep in just one week. Beyond the typical solutions, he shares surprisingly simple yet deeply effective techniques that will guide you in embracing the magic of restorative sleep.In this conversation, you’ll hear about why sleep starts the moment you wake up; how sex plays a role in the quality of your sleep; the psychology of building habits around sleep; the ideal length for a nap; and so much more. Whether you are someone for whom sleep seems elusive or you’re just trying to fine tune your sleep from “good” to “great”, Aric’s insights will guide you to that restful state where your body effortlessly does what it was built to do: sleep well._________________Subscribe to our Youtube Channel for more powerful conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and meaning: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine! https://www.findingmastery.com/morningmindsetFollow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aric Prather, a world-renowned sleep scientist and author, shares groundbreaking insights into improving sleep quality, debunking myths about insomnia and mattress warning labels. He emphasizes the importance of bedtime routines and creating a conducive sleep environment. Meanwhile, psychologist Randy Paterson explores the art of assertiveness, explaining how to effectively communicate needs without aggression. He discusses overcoming fears that hinder assertiveness, providing practical tips for enhancing self-advocacy and building healthy relationships.