Explore our latest tips and stories to help you and your loved ones sleep better.
Neuroscience and psychology are shedding light on why we dream, what dreams mean, and how they influence our waking lives. This article explores the science of dreams, traces their historical significance, highlights a recent breakthrough from 2023, and concludes with evidence-based facts about this enigmatic phenomenon.
This article synthesizes recent scientific studies on sleep published by reputable institutions between June 2024 and June 2025, providing a comprehensive overview for stakeholders seeking actionable insights. The findings span neurobiological mechanisms, clinical implications, aging, and psychosocial factors, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of sleep research.
Sleeping disorders are conditions that disrupt normal sleep patterns, preventing individuals from getting the restful sleep they need. These disorders can range from difficulty falling or staying asleep to more complex issues like sudden sleep attacks or breathing interruptions during sleep. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, there are over 80 recognized sleep disorders, but the most common ones include insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and restless leg syndrome (RLS). Each of these disorders has distinct characteristics, causes, and treatments.
The science is clear: earplugs are an effective tool for improving sleep quality in noisy environments. By reducing awakenings, enhancing REM sleep, and even lowering delirium risk in critical care, earplugs offer a simple, affordable solution for better rest. While risks like earwax buildup or discomfort exist, they can be managed with proper use and hygiene. Whether you’re battling city noise, a snoring partner, or hospital sounds, earplugs can help you reclaim restful sleep, boosting your health and well-being. Try them out, experiment with types, and pair them with good sleep habits for the best results.
Sleep is one of the most essential aspects of our health, influencing everything from our mood and cognitive function to our physical well-being. Yet, many people overlook the nuances of sleep, such as how long it takes to fall asleep. This concept, known as sleep latency, is a critical indicator of sleep quality and overall health. In this article, we’ll explore what sleep latency is, how it works, what short and long sleep latencies might indicate, and, most importantly, how you can improve your sleep latency for better rest. Whether you’re struggling to fall asleep or nodding off too quickly, understanding sleep latency can help you take control of your sleep health.
Insomnia is a complex condition that affects millions of people, but it’s also highly treatable. Whether you’re dealing with acute or chronic insomnia, understanding its causes, symptoms, and types is the first step toward finding relief. From lifestyle changes and CBT-I to medications when necessary, there are many ways to manage insomnia effectively. And remember, even small, cost-free changes to your daily routine can make a big difference in your sleep quality.
Deep sleep is an indispensable component of overall health and well-being, playing a vital role in physical restoration, cognitive function, and emotional balance. While the scientific exploration of sound frequencies and their impact on sleep is an evolving field, the evidence suggests that certain auditory stimuli can indeed influence relaxation and potentially enhance sleep quality. Research indicates that binaural beats, particularly in the delta range, pink noise, white noise, and nature sounds hold promise as non-invasive tools for promoting better sleep. While the specific effects of the 528 Hz frequency on deep sleep require further rigorous investigation, its potential for stress reduction and relaxation may indirectly contribute to a more conducive sleep environment. By responsibly experimenting with these scientifically-informed sound strategies as part of a holistic approach to sleep, individuals can potentially "tune in" to the power of sound and pave the way for more restful nights and improved overall well-being.
Sleep training can be an effective way to improve infant sleep and parental well-being, with research suggesting benefits for 1 in 4 to 1 in 10 babies and no long-term harm. While not a universal solution—about 20% of babies may not respond, and effects may fade—it offers a practical tool for sleep-deprived families. The variety of methods allows parents to choose what aligns with their values, from structured approaches like Ferber to gentler ones like Fading. Combined with AAP safe sleep guidelines, sleep training can create a safe and restful environment. Every family’s journey is unique, so trust your instincts and seek professional guidance if needed.
Side sleeping is a healthy choice for many, offering benefits like less snoring, better digestion, and a happier spine. Research backs its perks for sleep apnea, pregnancy, and even brain health. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all fix—shoulder pain, wrinkles, and neck strain can creep in without the right setup. By using supportive pillows, alternating sides, and choosing a good mattress, you can make side sleeping work for you. If pain or sleep issues persist, a chat with a doctor or chiropractor might be the next step to fine-tune your sleep game.
Stomach sleeping offers some relief for snoring and mild sleep apnea, but its drawbacks—spinal misalignment, neck and back pain, increased eye pressure, and risks for infants and pregnant women—make it less than ideal for most people. Research suggests that side or back sleeping better supports long-term health, particularly for spinal alignment and overall comfort. If you’re a stomach sleeper, small adjustments like using a thin pillow or transitioning to another position can make a big difference. Always consider your specific health needs and seek professional guidance if you’re unsure.
Your sleeping position can significantly impact your health and sleep quality. Side sleeping is often recommended for its benefits in reducing snoring, supporting spinal alignment, and potentially aiding brain health, but it may cause shoulder pain or facial creases. Back sleeping can help with low-back pain and skin health but may worsen snoring or acid reflux. Stomach sleeping, while helpful for some airway issues, is generally discouraged due to its negative effects on spinal health.
Grounding sheets represent a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern innovation, offering a potential way to reconnect with the Earth’s natural energy. While preliminary research suggests benefits like reduced inflammation and improved sleep, the evidence is not yet conclusive, and more rigorous studies are needed to validate these claims. For now, grounding sheets are best viewed as a complementary practice, not a substitute for evidence-based medical care.
Mouth taping has captured attention as a trendy sleep hack, with claims of better sleep, reduced snoring, and improved health. While some small studies suggest it may help with mild sleep apnea and snoring, the overall scientific evidence is limited, and many claims—especially those on social media—lack support. Nasal breathing is indeed better than mouth breathing during sleep, offering benefits like improved oxygenation, better sleep quality, and enhanced oral health. However, mouth taping is not a universal solution and carries risks, particularly for those with nasal congestion or medical conditions.
Social jetlag is the discrepancy between your biological clock, which dictates when you naturally want to sleep and wake, and your social clock, driven by obligations like early work meetings or school bells. It’s most noticeable when your sleep schedule shifts between weekdays and weekends. For instance, if you’re up at 6 a.m. during the week but sleep until 9 a.m. on Saturdays, that three-hour difference creates social jetlag. This misalignment tricks your body into feeling like it’s in a different time zone, even though you haven’t traveled.
Increasing melatonin naturally offers a safe, sustainable way to improve sleep quality and support overall health. By optimizing light exposure, adjusting lifestyle habits, choosing melatonin-rich foods, and timing sleep appropriately, you can enhance your body’s production of this vital hormone. Coupled with good sleep hygiene, these strategies provide a holistic approach to better rest. Consistency is key—small changes can yield significant results over time. If sleep problems persist, seek medical advice to explore potential underlying conditions.
Bryan Johnson, tech entrepreneur and founder of Blueprint, claims he logged “the best sleep score in human history” after struggling with poor sleep his entire life. His approach isn’t about spending millions—it’s about developing smart, repeatable habits. In this article, we break down Johnson’s 10 strategies that helped him get eight months of flawless sleep.
Sleep paralysis is when you’re awake but can’t move or speak, typically as you’re falling asleep or waking up. It happens when your brain and body are out of sync during the transition between sleep and wakefulness, often linked to REM sleep, where your muscles are naturally paralyzed to prevent acting out dreams. Episodes are brief, lasting from seconds to a few minutes, and while scary, they’re not physically harmful.
The circadian rhythm helps your body stay in sync with the environment, optimizing energy and health. When disrupted—by irregular schedules, travel, or artificial light—it can cause sleep issues, fatigue, and even health problems like obesity or mood disorders.
Sleep is a universal need, but how we sleep can depend on where we live. A fascinating study, published as "Country differences in nocturnal sleep variability" (Study Source), explored how sleep patterns vary across 35 countries. By analyzing over 50 million nights of sleep data from more than 220,000 people using Oura Ring wearable devices, researchers uncovered how culture, lifestyle, and location shape our sleep. This article breaks down the study’s purpose, methods, findings, and implications in a way that’s easy to understand, offering insights into the global diversity of sleep.
Sleep duration and quality vary markedly across the U.S., with state and county-level data highlighting distinct regional patterns. According to the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data for 2022, the percentage of adults reporting insufficient sleep—defined as less than 7 hours per day—ranged from 30% in Vermont to 46% in Hawaii (CDC FastStats). This suggests that nearly half of Hawaiian adults face sleep challenges, while Vermonters are among the best-rested.
The 10-3-2-1-0 sleep rule offers a structured, science-backed approach to improving sleep quality. By addressing common sleep disruptors—caffeine, late meals, work stress, screen time, and suboptimal sleep environments—it helps individuals create a routine that supports restful sleep. While not a one-size-fits-all solution, its evidence-based components make it a valuable tool for most people. By implementing these guidelines and tailoring them to your needs, you can enhance your sleep and overall well-being.
The eye mask represents a non-pharmacological method for improving specific aspects of cognitive function through better sleep. Unlike many "cognitive enhancers" or supplements, it has no side effects, requires no prescription, and is accessible to almost everyone.
Insomnia can significantly impair quality of life, leading to daytime fatigue, mood disturbances, and reduced productivity. This article provides a comprehensive, evidence-based exploration of insomnia, covering its symptoms, when to seek medical help, self-help strategies, lifestyle factors, gender differences, health consequences, and actionable advice for better sleep.
Caffeine is a part of most people’s daily rituals—whether it’s your morning latte or an afternoon energy drink. We all know it helps us stay alert. But what if your favorite stimulant is doing much more than just keeping you awake?
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes breathing to stop and start repeatedly during sleep. It can lead to serious health issues if not addressed. Research suggests it affects millions worldwide, with significant impacts on heart health, mental well-being, and daily functioning. Below, we summarize key aspects of sleep apnea, including symptoms, when to seek medical help, self-management strategies, lifestyle links, and gender differences, based on credible scientific sources. The article ends with practical tips for better sleep.
Caffeine, a naturally occurring stimulant, is found in plants like coffee beans, tea leaves, and cacao pods. It’s a go-to for boosting alertness and fighting fatigue, with about 90% of U.S. adults consuming it daily, often through coffee, tea, or energy drinks (Caffeine Consumption). However, its stimulating effects can interfere with sleep, a critical component of physical and mental health. This article explores how caffeine affects sleep, the role of consumption timing, and evidence-based strategies to balance caffeine use with restful sleep.
Light, whether natural or artificial, interacts with the brain’s suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) to synchronize these rhythms with the 24-hour day. This article explores the scientific evidence behind light’s impact on sleep, from daily light exposure to extreme seasonal variations in places like northern Scandinavia, and offers actionable advice for optimizing sleep through light management.
Sleep problems become more common with age. In fact, about 30–48% of older adults report daytime sleepiness and 12–20% meet criteria for insomnia. Poor sleep in seniors is linked to many health issues – depression, anxiety, metabolic syndrome, hypertension and heart disease are all associated with insomnia. Treating sleep problems without drugs is especially important for older people, since sleep medications can have long-lasting side effects.
Helping a newborn fall asleep — and stay asleep — can often feel like a real challenge for new parents. Fortunately, there are several proven strategies that can make a big difference. We've gathered some of the best evidence-based tips to help you create a healthy sleep routine and give your baby the best possible start toward restful, consistent sleep.
Sleeping on your back keeps the spine neutral and can ease neck and back strain. Experts note back-sleeping promotes spinal alignment and even helps reduce pressure points. To make this switch comfortable, take it slow and focus on support. Gradually build the new habit using pillows, gentle stretches, and a calming bedtime routine. As one sleep guide advises, “if side sleeping is causing discomfort or pain, try gradually transitioning to back sleeping.”