Sleep
it’s something we all do, yet so few of us truly understand. In a world that glorifies being overworked, sleep is often treated as optional. However science provides evidence to us that it’s the foundation of health, balance, and vitality. As Dr. Matthew Walker, professor of neuroscience at UC Berkeley and author of Why We Sleep, reminds us: “Sleep is the single most effective thing we can do to reset our brain and body health each day.”
At L.A.D.S. we believe wellness always had and should begin with rest. This post explores what sleep really is, how our understanding of it has evolved, and five proven methods to improve sleep quality — including the role of magnesium glycinate, a key supplement as well as one of our featured products.
What Is Sleep?
Sleep is defined as a natural state of altered consciousness where the brain cycles through stages of non‑REM and REM sleep. Far from passive, sleep is an active process that consolidates memory, regulates hormones, repairs tissues, and resets emotional balance meaning that while asleep the brain in a sense is restarting/ rebooting your body. With that being said Walker’s research shows that deep sleep enhances learning and creativity, while REM sleep focuses on support emotional resilience.
Brief History of Sleep
Historically, humans didn’t sleep in one continuous block. Anthropological evidence suggests biphasic sleep — two shorter sleep periods separated by waking — was common before artificial lighting. With industrialization, sleep became consolidated into the “8‑hour block” that we now know today.
Dr. Walker highlighted in his Diary of a CEO interview that modern lifestyles — screens, caffeine, irregular schedules have ruptured our natural circadian rhythms, leading to widespread sleep deprivation. He even noted that inconsistent bedtimes can increase cardiovascular risk by over 50%
5 Proven Methods to Improve Sleep
1. Prioritize Consistency
Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily. Walker’s data shows that irregular sleep schedules increase risk of heart disease and impair cognitive performance. A good rule of thumb is that consistency anchors your circadian rhythm.
2. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeine blocks adenosine, the sleep pressure chemical, while alcohol fragments REM sleep. Walker’s research demonstrates that even moderate evening use reduces deep sleep quality.
3. Magnesium Glycinate: A Natural Sleep Ally
Magnesium contributes to relaxation and healthy sleep by calming the nervous system. Magnesium glycinate, a highly absorbable and gentle form, boosts GABA activity — the neurotransmitter that signals the brain to unwind and prepare for quality rest.
While Dr. Walker cautioned in his recent podcast that not all magnesium supplements cross the blood‑brain barrier effectively, magnesium glycinate is one of the forms most often recommended for sleep support. which is why we feature it in our shop designed to help you relax, fall asleep faster, and wake up restored.
4. Optimize Your Sleep Environment
Cool, dark, and quiet rooms promote deeper sleep. Walker’s lab studies show that lowering bedroom temperature improves slow‑wave sleep, the stage critical for physical recovery. The recommended room temperature for sleep being between between 60 and 67°F .
5. Digital Curfew
Blue light from screens delays melatonin release. Walker emphasized in Diary of a CEO that evening screen use “rewires the brain’s sleep timing”. Aim to unplug at least an hour before bed.
Humanizing Sleep: Why It Matters
Sleep isn’t just science — it’s deeply human. It’s the quiet space where we dream, heal, and prepare for tomorrow. As Walker said in his interview, “Sleep is not a luxury. It’s a biological necessity.”
When we neglect sleep, we compromise memory, mood, and long‑term vitality. But when we honor it — with consistency, environment, nutrition, and mindfulness — we unlock balance.
Conclusion
Sleep is the foundation of wellness. From its ancient biphasic roots to modern neuroscience, our understanding has grown — yet the message remains timeless: prioritize rest. By applying these five methods, into your routine, you can reclaim balance and vitality.
At L.A.D.S. , we’re committed to making wellness accessible. Explore our Magnesium Glycinate Sleep Support and other curated products designed to help you rest better, live calmer, and embrace the adventure of tomorrow.