#64 How to improve Sleep Health For The Traveller And The Stressed - with Funke Afolabi-Brown

Synopsis:

Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown is a distinguished medical doctor specialised in sleep medicine. We discuss the crucial impact of sleep on well-being and productivity, particularly for those leading high-intensity lifestyles and constant travel.

In This Episode:

Importance of Sleep and Its Consequences

Negative Effects of Poor Sleep

• Cognitive impacts: focus, memory issues, increased risk of Alzheimer’s
• Physical health impacts: blood pressure, heart issues, immune system functionality, metabolism, diabetes, obesity
• Mental health impacts: burnout, anxiety, depression, suicidality

Sleep and High-Intensity Lifestyle

Jet Lag

• Difference between temporary jet lag and jet lag sleep disorder
• Strategies for pre-travel, during travel, and post-arrival adjustments
• Impact of frequent travel on circadian rhythm and strategies for mitigation

Organizational Support for Employees

Educating Organizations

• Impact of lack of sleep on health and productivity
• Strategies for organizational support: recovery time, comfortable sleeping arrangements, etc.
• Importance of promoting sleep wellness for better organizational outcomes

Managing Stress and Sleep

Techniques for Reducing Stress and Improving Sleep

• Importance of a bedtime routine
• Strategies: journaling, breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, cognitive shuffle
• Importance of intention and finding personalized methods

Sleep for Parents, Especially Moms

Balancing Personal Time and Sleep

• Time audit to find opportunities for self-care
• Investing in personal time for restorative sleep and well-being

Napping During the Day

• Guidelines for Naps
• Short naps (20-30 minutes) recommended
• Best time earlier in the day
• Avoiding naps when suffering from insomnia

Identifying Sleep Disorders

Signs of Sleep Disorders

• Difficulty in falling or staying asleep, frequent awakenings, fatigue
• Symptoms specific to sleep apnea: snoring, restless sleep, mouth breathing
• Consulting a specialist when necessary

Sleep Trackers

Using Sleep Trackers

• Benefits for monitoring trends
• Caution against obsession over data
• Importance of balancing technology use with listening to one’s body

Dr. Funke Afolabi Brown’s Book

"Beyond Tired"

• Overview of the book’s focus on children’s sleep
• Topics covered: behavioral sleep issues, sleep disorders, sleep in children with complex living arrangements, sleep for busy moms
• Availability on Amazon

Faith-Based Devotional

Seven-Day Devotional

• Focus on sacred rest: mentally, physically, and emotionally
• Available for download on Dr. Brown’s website

Conclusion

Encouragement to Listeners

• Importance of prioritizing sleep quality
• Seeking help when necessary
• Rhoda and Funke express mutual appreciation.