Menu Close

Sleep – The science, syncing and trends

Sleep is a vital and complex biological process that affects our physical and mental health in many ways. In this article, we will explore some of the latest findings and trends in sleep science, sleep syncing, and sleep trends.

The Science of Sleep

Sleep science is the interdisciplinary field of study that investigates how sleep works, why it is important, and how it can be improved. Sleep science draws from various disciplines, such as neuroscience, psychology, medicine, and engineering, to understand the mechanisms and functions of sleep in humans and other animals.

One of the main topics of interest in sleep science is the sleep cycle, which consists of four stages: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) stages 1, 2, and 3, and rapid eye movement (REM) stage. Each stage has different characteristics and effects on the brain and body. For example, NREM stage 3 is the deepest stage of sleep, where the body relaxes and repairs itself, while REM stage is where most dreaming occurs and the brain consolidates memories and emotions.

Another topic of interest in sleep science is the circadian rhythm, which is the internal clock that regulates our daily sleep-wake cycle. The circadian rhythm is influenced by various factors, such as light, temperature, hormones, and genes. The circadian rhythm helps us to synchronize our sleep with our environment and optimize our alertness and performance during the day.

Sleep science also explores the various factors that affect our sleep quality and quantity, such as age, lifestyle, health conditions, and sleep disorders. Some of the common sleep problems include insomnia, obstructive sleep apnoea, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, and parasomnias. Sleep science aims to find effective ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent these problems using various methods, such as medication, behavioural therapy, devices, and surgery.

What is Sleep Syncing?

Sleep syncing is a term that refers to the process of aligning your sleep cycle with your circadian rhythm. Sleep syncing can help you to improve your sleep quality, increase your energy levels, and enhance your overall well-being.

Sleep syncing involves creating a consistent sleep schedule that matches your natural sleep preferences and needs. This means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends and holidays. By doing so, you can train your body to fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up more refreshed.

Sleep syncing also involves adjusting your exposure to light and darkness according to your circadian rhythm. This means getting enough natural sunlight in the morning to signal your body to wake up and reduce your production of melatonin, the hormone that makes you sleepy. Conversely, this means avoiding bright light at night to signal your body to wind down and increase your production of melatonin.

Sleep syncing also involves adopting healthy habits that support your sleep quality and quantity. This means avoiding caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, heavy meals, and stimulating activities before bed. This also means creating a comfortable and relaxing sleeping environment that is dark, quiet, cool, and free of distractions. Furthermore, this means engaging in regular physical activity during the day to promote your physical and mental health.

Sleep Trends

Sleep trends are the emerging patterns and practices that reflect how people perceive and manage their sleep in the modern world. Sleep trends are influenced by various factors, such as technology, culture, media, research, and innovation.

One of the current sleep trends is the use of technology to monitor and improve sleep. Many people use devices such as smartwatches, fitness trackers (such as the WHOOP Band), sleep trackers, apps, or smart mattresses to measure their sleep duration, quality, stages, cycles or patterns. Personally, I have found these devices to prove themselves potent in providing feedback and insight into my own personal sleep health and have helped many of my clients optimise their sleep habits and address their sleep problems.

Another current sleep trend is the rise of wellness practices that promote better sleep. Many people engage in sleep-health activities such as meditation to reduce stress, relax, or enhance their mood before bed.

The low down on Sleep

Sleep is a vital and complex biological process that affects our physical and mental health in many ways. By learning more about sleep science, sleep syncing, and sleep trends, we can better understand how sleep works, why it is important, and how it can be improved. By applying this knowledge to our own sleep habits, we can enhance our sleep quality and quantity, and enjoy the benefits of a good night’s rest.

Connect with me to if you’d like to explore the topic of sleep further and regain wellness in your own sleep hygiene.

Before You Leave...

Try WHOOP - the Best Wellness Tracker in South Africa...

WHOOP Tracks Sleep, Stress, Strain, Recovery, and Health data, and offers personalised coaching. 

WHOOP Bands purchased direct from Made To Thrive include a 30 minute video consult to help you understand the data.

Sign up for our newsletter

and discover how you were Made To Thrive