Deep Dive with Ali Abdaal

We all know that sleep can have a huge impact on our quality of life. But how does sleep actually work, and what can we do to improve it? In this episode I sat down with world-renowned sleep and circadian rhythm expert Professor Russell Foster. Russell has recently published a book called ‘Lifetime’, which explores how our circadian system underpins our overall health and this new science of the body clock can help us have better sleep, better health, and better cognitive function. In the conversation we talk about exactly how our body clocks work, and what we can do to make sure that we are keeping our internal clocks on track through light, temperature and stress reduction. He also debunks some common myths about sleep and gives his top tips for making sure we get enough rest so we can function at our best. Enjoy :)

Show Notes

We all know that sleep can have a huge impact on our quality of life. But how does sleep actually work, and what can we do to improve it? In this episode I sat down with world-renowned sleep and circadian rhythm expert Professor Russell Foster. Russell has recently published a book called ‘Lifetime’, which explores how our circadian system underpins our overall health and this new science of the body clock can help us have better sleep, better health, and better cognitive function. In the conversation we talk about exactly how our body clocks work, and what we can do to make sure that we are keeping our internal clocks on track through light, temperature and stress reduction. He also debunks some common myths about sleep and gives his top tips for making sure we get enough rest so we can function at our best. Enjoy :)

(00:00) Intro
(01:33) What’s the difference between Why We Sleep and LifeTime?
(02:56) How does the bodyclock work?
(11:12) How our eyes and light impact sleep-wake cycles
(24:53) The impact of the body-clock on health
(29:06) Debunking sleep myths
(44:20) The importance of morning light
(50:14) Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
(51:29) Understanding melatonin
(01:02:02) Should we use devices before bed?
(01:07:11) Is it better to wake up without an alarm?
(01:08:06) Understanding dreaming
(01:09:08) Blue light and warm light
(01:18:20) Having a winding down routine before bedtime
(01:20:28) How stress impacts sleep
(01:27:22) Exercise, eating and temperature
(01:34:10) Morning and evening people
(01:37:26) Building an optimum sleep schedule
(01:48:53) Advice for students and young people

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📕 Lifetime: The New Science Of The Body Clock and How It Can Revolutionize Your Sleep And Health
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Find the show notes and the transcript on the website: https://aliabdaal.com/podcast/

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Creators & Guests

AA
Host
Ali Abdaal
AB
Producer
Amber Baxter-Clarke

What is Deep Dive with Ali Abdaal ?

Dr Ali Abdaal is the world’s most followed productivity expert and author of Feel-Good Productivity, the brand new book that reveals why the secret to productivity isn’t discipline, it’s joy. In his podcast, Deep Dive, Ali sits down with inspiring creators, thinkers, entrepreneurs and high performers to help listeners build lives that they love.

Ali’s cheerful style, positive approach, and well-researched content have made him a trusted voice when it comes to productivity. The internet means that we have access to more knowledge and information than ever before - but it can also be overwhelming. So, Ali and his expert guests focus on simple, scientifically proven, and actionable steps you can take to make real changes in your life.

Ali’s a firm believer that happiness isn’t the result of success - in fact, happiness is the key to success in the first place. Ali made this discovery while working as a doctor in a chaotic hospital ward. In the past, hard work had been the answer to every obstacle in his life. But no amount of hard work was going to combat panic and burnout.

So, Ali dedicated himself to figuring out a new approach to productivity - one that focuses on enjoying the journey and working towards truly meaningful goals. Deep Dive, with its authentic and engaging conversations, will give you all the insights you need to do just that.