About this episode
Neurobiologist Jamie Zeitzer is an expert on sleep – or, more accurately, an expert on why so many can’t sleep. He notes that, ironically, it’s often anxiety about sleep that prevents good sleep. In short, we lose sleep over lost sleep. Wearables and other tools can help but only to a point, and medications do not induce natural sleep. Instead, he counsels consistent routines, less stimulation at bedtime, and cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce worry about insomnia. Unfortunately, you can’t work harder to get better sleep – you have to learn to relax, Zeitzer tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Jamie ZeitzerConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Jamie Zeitzer, professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University.(00:03:12) Understanding Circadian RhythmsHow the biological clock regulates sleep and other body functions.(00:04:57) The Mystery of Sleep’s PurposeWhat is still unknown about the fundamental need for sleep.(00:06:00) Light and the Circadian ClockThe impact light exposure has on the body’s internal sleep timing.(00:08:13) Day and Night Light ContrastThe importance of creating a light-dark contrast for healthy rhythms.(00:11:18) Phones, Screens, and the Blue LightWhether blue light from screen use affects sleep quality.(00:
