EPISODE 11: Sleep, Circadian Neuroscience & Human Performance
In this episode, Martin and Jonpaul talk to Professor Russell Foster, a world-renowned expert on sleep and circadian rhythms. They discuss the importance of sleep and circadian rhythms for human performance, how the circadian system provides the time structure for life, optimising physiology and behavior, and highlight some evidence-based strategies for enhancing sleep quality and quantity.
Guest, Cast & Crew
Russell Foster is Professor of Circadian Neuroscience, director of the Sir Jules Thorn Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute and the head of The Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology at the University of Oxford. Russell’s research interests span visual and circadian neurobiology, focusing on the mechanisms by which light regulates circadian rhythms.
Russell has published hundreds of peer-reviewed articles and books, including his recent book, ‘Life Time: the New Science of the Body Clock and How It Can Revolutionize Your Sleep and Health’.
Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk
Edited by Bess Manley
Produced by Wavell Room https://wavellroom.com/
Resources
- Sir Jules Thorn Sleep & Circadian Neuroscience Institute https://www.scni.ox.ac.uk
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford https://www.ndcn.ox.ac.uk/team/russell-foster
- ‘Life Time: the New Science of the Body Clock and How It Can Revolutionize Your Sleep and Health’ by Russell Foster https://www.pemberleybooks.com/product/the-ecology-of-vision/34916/
- ‘The Ecology of Vision’ by John Lythgoe
- ‘Blitzed’ by Norman Ohler
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Chapters
00:28 Journey into Circadian Rhythm Research
01:56 Understanding Circadian Rhythms
03:43 Consequences of Sleep Deprivation
09:25 Mental Health and Sleep
15:16 Shift Work and Health Impacts
25:45 The Role of Light in Circadian Rhythms
36:38 Understanding HPO and Sleep
37:22 Strategies for Better Sleep
37:46 The Role of Light and Relaxation
39:06 Avoiding Sleep Disruptors
40:48 The Importance of Routine and Naps
43:42 Challenges of Night Shift Work
47:17 Impact of Light on Sleep
58:55 Food and Circadian Rhythms
Up Next
Next week, we’re delighted to welcome consultant psychiatrist Professor Steve Peters to discuss his work in optimising human performance. From the NHS to elite sport, Steve helps people understand how the mind works, gain insight into their own minds, and develop the skills to optimize individual performance and quality of life. We discuss his famous chimp model, imposter syndrome, and the antecedents of high performance.
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