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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