The Reel Addiction
Aman Gupta, a familiar face from Shark Tank India, revealed a personal habit that consumes a significant portion of his evenings: watching reels. He admits
to spending approximately 1.5 to 2 hours immersed in these short videos each night, describing it as an addiction. This dedicated time for reels is followed by his eventual transition to sleep, whenever he feels tired. He prioritizes spending his early evenings with his children, suggesting a conscious effort to balance personal life and leisure, even amidst his entertainment choices.
No Need for Alarms
Gupta expresses a strong dislike for alarms, asserting that he prefers to wake up naturally, on his own terms. He likens this to the behavior of wild animals, drawing an analogy to a tiger in the jungle that awakens when it feels rested, rather than being dictated by an external schedule. This personal preference underscores his belief in a more intuitive and less regimented approach to daily routines, emphasizing self-awareness over imposed timings for waking up.
Flexible Work Philosophy
Expanding on his aversion to strict schedules, Gupta shared his perspective on office hours. He stated that work can commence at any time, as long as one has their phone, implying that productivity is not confined to a physical workspace or a specific clock-in time. Consequently, he questions the necessity of traditional 9 or 10 am office start times, admitting that he personally does not adhere to them. This viewpoint suggests a trust in individual autonomy and a focus on output rather than rigid adherence to conventional working hours.
The Science of Rhythm
Dr. Prashant Makhija, a neurologist, offers a scientific counterpoint to Gupta's flexible approach, emphasizing the critical role of rhythm in brain function. He explains that our internal biological clock, known as the circadian rhythm, governs vital processes like hormone regulation, alertness, digestion, and immunity. Irregular sleep and wake times, according to Dr. Makhija, disrupt this crucial rhythm, leading to confusion for the body's natural systems and potentially impacting overall health and well-being. Consistency is key for the brain to operate optimally.
Natural Waking Explained
While waking up naturally can be beneficial, Dr. Makhija clarifies that this is only healthy if sleep patterns are consistent. If an individual maintains the same sleep and wake times daily, their brain can indeed signal wakefulness without an alarm, leading to a refreshed feeling. However, he cautions that if sleep timing is erratic, the experience of waking up 'whenever you want' often signifies that the brain is functioning without a stable biological schedule, potentially leading to underlying issues.
Nighttime Screens' Impact
Dr. Makhija identifies nighttime screentime as a prevalent cause of sleep disturbances in modern life. The bright light emitted from screens interferes with melatonin production, a hormone essential for signaling sleep readiness to the brain. He further elaborates that short, emotionally engaging videos can overstimulate the brain, keeping it in a state of semi-alertness. Many individuals perceive this as relaxation, but neurologically, it trains the brain to remain awake for extended periods, hindering the natural transition to sleep.
Broader Health Effects
The consequences of disrupted sleep extend far beyond mere tiredness. Dr. Makhija highlights that poor sleep quality is associated with a range of health problems, including memory impairment, mood fluctuations, reduced attention spans, headaches, weight gain, and an increased risk of hypertension and diabetes. Over time, the brain's capacity to effectively shut down and enter restorative sleep deteriorates, impacting cognitive function and physical health significantly.
Structure for Health
While acknowledging that flexibility can enhance productivity, Dr. Makhija stresses that biology fundamentally requires structure, especially concerning sleep. He asserts that even highly creative individuals benefit from consistent sleep and wake schedules. The brain, he explains, prioritizes health through consistency rather than measuring success by freedom from routine. Adhering to a regular biological rhythm is paramount for optimal brain health and function.
Boosting Sleep Quality
To improve sleep, Dr. Makhija recommends several key strategies. Sticking to a regular wake-up time is crucial, as is limiting screen exposure for at least 60 minutes before bedtime. Allowing the brain a dedicated 'wind-down' period before sleep is also vital. He emphasizes that sleep should not commence with digital engagement but rather with stillness. Ultimately, good sleep is not about convenience but about respecting the brain's inherent wiring and needs.
