Unconventional Mornings
Aman Gupta, a prominent figure on Shark Tank India, has revealed a rather unconventional approach to his daily routine, notably his disinterest in traditional
alarm clocks and fixed office timings. Gupta openly admitted to an addiction to short-form video content, confessing to spending as much as two hours each night immersed in reels. He contrasts this with a tiger in the wild, suggesting a natural, instinctual awakening rather than a forced one by an alarm. This philosophy extends to his professional life, as he doesn't advocate for mandatory 9 or 10 am office arrivals, stating he himself doesn't adhere to such schedules, emphasizing a belief that work can commence from anywhere, at any time, as long as productivity is maintained.
The Brain's Biological Clock
Neurologist Dr. Prashant Makhija highlights the critical role of a consistent rhythm for optimal brain function. He explains that irregular sleep and wake times, a habit of waking 'whenever one wants' without a stable schedule, can significantly disrupt the body's internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm. This rhythm is not merely about sleep; it orchestrates vital bodily processes including hormone regulation, alertness levels, digestion efficiency, and even the robustness of the immune system. While waking naturally can be beneficial, Dr. Makhija clarifies this is only truly healthy when coupled with consistent sleep durations and timings. An irregular pattern leads to the brain operating without its foundational biological schedule, potentially impacting overall well-being.
Screen Time's Sleep Impact
Dr. Makhija identifies nighttime screen time as a primary culprit behind modern sleep disturbances. The bright light emitted from screens actively interferes with melatonin production, a crucial hormone signaling to the brain that it's time to rest. Furthermore, the short, emotionally stimulating nature of many online videos can overexcite the brain, keeping it in a state of heightened alertness instead of promoting relaxation. Paradoxically, what many perceive as unwinding might actually be training the brain to remain awake for extended periods, hindering the natural onset of sleep and disrupting the body's recovery processes.
Beyond Sleep Disruption
The consequences of consistent sleep disruption extend far beyond simple tiredness. Dr. Makhija warns that poor sleep quality can lead to a cascade of negative health effects, including memory impairments, mood instability, diminished attention spans, and frequent headaches. Furthermore, it can contribute to weight gain and elevate the risk of developing serious chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Over time, the brain's capacity to efficiently transition into a restorative sleep state deteriorates, making it increasingly challenging to achieve restful sleep and recover adequately.
Embracing Structure for Health
While acknowledging the potential benefits of flexibility for productivity, Dr. Makhija strongly emphasizes that biological systems fundamentally require structure. Even individuals in creative fields, often perceived as requiring unconventional hours, thrive with regular sleep and wake cycles. The brain's success, he explains, is not measured by freedom from routine but by the maintenance of consistent, healthy biological patterns. Adhering to a regular sleep-wake schedule is paramount for overall brain health and optimal functioning, regardless of one's profession or lifestyle.
Healthy Sleep Strategies
To foster better sleep hygiene, Dr. Makhija recommends several practical strategies. A cornerstone is establishing and adhering to a consistent wake-up time each day. Crucially, screen time should be significantly limited, ideally at least 60 minutes before bedtime, to allow melatonin production to commence. Providing the brain with a dedicated 'wind-down' period before sleep is also essential, facilitating a transition from activity to rest. The expert stresses that good sleep isn't a matter of convenience but a conscious effort to respect the brain's innate biological needs and wiring, prioritizing stillness over digital stimulation as a prelude to sleep.
