If you are struggling with sleep, you are far from alone. Research from Sleepwave found that 73% of Americans wake up feeling tired at least twice a week, and 83% admit to regularly snoozing their alarm. As much as 45% of the global population is sleep deficient — and that figure does not even account for people with diagnosed sleep disorders.
Nancy Rothstein, Sleepwave’s Sleep Ambassador, frames the issue as a matter of biology versus behavior. “Our biology was formed eons ago,” she explains, “but our behaviors have changed — particularly thanks to Thomas Edison, Steve Jobs, and Bill Gates, bringing light into night. Our physiology, mental, emotional, and spiritual selves are all crying out, ‘I can’t sustain this.'”
The Sleepy Six: Questions to Transform Your Sleep
- How much caffeine did I consume? Caffeine hides in chocolate, cake, and tea — not just coffee. Even an after-dinner treat can keep you up if you are sensitive
- Am I exposing myself to blue light before bed? Screens and devices disrupt melatonin production, confusing your body’s natural sleep signals
- Is my bedroom optimized for sleep? Temperature, light, and noise all play critical roles in sleep quality
- Am I maintaining a consistent schedule? Your circadian rhythm thrives on regular bedtime and wake time — even on weekends
- What am I consuming close to bedtime? Alcohol, large meals, and stimulating content can all fragment your sleep cycles
- Am I managing my stress effectively? Unmanaged anxiety is one of the most common barriers to falling and staying asleep
The good news is that small, consistent changes to your daily habits can yield significant improvements in sleep quality. Start by honestly answering these six questions and making one change at a time.
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For a structured approach to better sleep, explore Nancy’s courses and consulting or visit her sleep resources for more guidance.