Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams

Book: Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams
Author: Matthew Walker

Neuroscientist and sleep expert Matthew Walker provides a revolutionary exploration of sleep, examining how it affects every aspect of our physical and mental well-being. Charting the most cutting-edge scientific breakthroughs, and marshalling his decades of research and clinical practice, Walker explains how we can harness sleep to improve learning, mood and energy levels, regulate hormones, prevent cancer, Alzheimer's and diabetes, slow the effects of aging, and increase longevity. He also provides actionable steps towards getting a better night's sleep every night.-Goodreads

Review: Loved, loved, loved this book. It is very dense and reads like a textbook at times (this was a book club selection and only two of us finished it) so while I understand it's not a book for everyone, everyone (and I mean everyone) should read a cliff notes version at some point. It really delves into the importance of sleep and how it impacts pretty much every aspect of our lives. Walker discusses why it's good to take a hot bath/shower before bed, optimum temperature for sleeping, how many hours we need, how it impossible to 'catch up on sleep' (like we all try to do at times). We learn about the impact of caffeine and alcohol on REM sleep, and so much more. It is very well researched and immediately upon finishing you are going to want to take a nap. 

I read this book months ago and still think about it. Highly recommend!

Grade: 5/5