1 SENTENCE SUMMARY: This book offers valuable insight into the importance of sleep for health and well-being, and gives practical advice to help readers get the rest they need.
“Sleep is the ultimate performance- enhancing drug.”
Quick Info

Category: Psychology
Publish Date: 2018-06-19
# Pages: 368
ISBN: 1501144324
Where to Get It:
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Table of Contents
Overview
Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker is a comprehensive exploration of sleep and its importance for our overall health and wellbeing.
Drawing on a range of scientific evidence, Walker shows how sleep has a profound impact on our physical and mental health, from influencing our memory and concentration to increasing our risk of developing illnesses such as obesity, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.
He also examines the implications of our increasingly sleep-deprived lifestyles, and suggests how we can improve our sleep quality and quantity.
Written in an engaging and accessible style, this book provides an invaluable insight into one of the most important aspects of our lives.
4 Key Lessons from Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker
1. Sleep is essential for good health
Sleep is a vital component of overall health and well-being.
Several studies have indicated that when we get enough sleep, our body is able to repair and rejuvenate itself, improving our physical and mental health.
Additionally, lack of sleep has been linked to an increased risk of developing chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even some forms of cancer.
It is therefore important to prioritize getting a good night’s sleep in order to maintain good health.
2. Sleep deprivation can have serious consequences
Sleep deprivation can have serious consequences, including impaired cognitive functioning, decreased motor coordination, and increased risk of injury.
Studies have also found that lack of sleep can lead to depression and impaired decision-making, as well as increased risk of obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes.
It is therefore important to ensure that we get the recommended amount of sleep each night in order to avoid these negative consequences.
3. Establishing good sleep hygiene is essential
Good sleep hygiene is essential for getting a good night’s rest.
This includes sticking to a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine close to bedtime, and avoiding distractions such as the television, laptop, or phone.
It is also important to ensure that the environment we sleep in is comfortable and conducive to sleep.
4. Napping can provide health benefits
Napping is an effective way to get an extra boost of energy and alertness, as well as improved cognitive performance.
Napping has also been linked to improved mood and increased productivity.
It is important to establish a regular napping routine and to ensure that naps do not interfere with nighttime sleep.
Who Should Read It
This book is suitable for anyone interested in the science of sleep and its importance in our lives.
It is a great read for students studying neuroscience, sleep science, biology, psychology, or medicine.
It is also suitable for anyone who is looking to improve their sleep quality and quantity.
People who are interested in understanding the biological, psychological, and social importance of sleep should also read this book.
Where to Get It
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About Matthew Walker
Matthew Walker is a professor of neuroscience and psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, as well as the founder and director of the Center for Human Sleep Science.
He is an internationally recognized leader in the science of sleep and has published over 100 scientific papers on the subject.
He has also written several books, including the New York Times bestseller Why We Sleep.
Walker is a sought-after speaker, having presented his work to audiences ranging from the World Economic Forum to the U.S.
House of Representatives.
He has been featured in many media outlets, including the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, NPR, and TED.
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- Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
- Descartes’ Error by Antonio R. Damasio
- Everyday Vitality by Samantha Boardman
Over to You
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Thanks a lot,
Simon

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