Why we sleep? (Book review)

 

"Scientists have discovered a revolutionary new treatment that makes you live longer. It enhances your memory and makes you more creative. It makes you look more attractive. It keeps you slim and lowers food cravings. It protects you from cancer and dementia. It wards off colds and flu. It lowers your risk of heart attacks and stroke, not to mention diabetes. You'll even feel happier, less depressed, and less anxious. Are you interested?"

And that's the opening to Chapter 6 of the book "Why we sleep" by neuroscientist Matthew Walker, and yes, by now you would have known, the revolutionary treatment is none other than a good night's sleep of 8 hours, every day. And everything that is mentioned in that para is backed by several scientific research.

The book is a big eye-opener to anyone who reads it since the concept of sleep has always been a mystery to humans on why we sleep, why can't we just adapt to fewer hours of sleep, isn't sleep a waste of our limited time in the world, Matthew Walker answers it all. The author not only explains why we sleep but also goes ahead and tells the impact of getting a night of good sleep and also of not getting one, on people, society and countries. 

Walker, who also heads UC Berkeley's Centre for human sleep science quotes various research done on his students and research subjects which is very interesting and throws up a lot of surprises but he also ensures, throughout the book, everything is very much easily understandable. The concept of why we dream and how we dream is another interesting segment that is fascinating.

A common misconception among people is they don't need 7 or 8 hours of sleep, the book shatters the claim completely and also puts out this brilliant quote:

“The number of people who can survive on five hours of sleep or less without impairment, and rounded to a whole number, is zero.”

One of the main points the book stresses chapter after chapter is the "shorter you sleep, the shorter your life". The leading causes of diseases such as heart disease, obesity, dementia, diabetes and cancer all have recognised casual links to a lack of sleep.

The author closes off with a number of proven tips for better sleep from lower room temperature to dimmer lighting before sleep to many more. And without a doubt, the book is a must read for all. 

Book rating: ★★★★★