Clinical psychologist Breus, WebMD.com's sleep expert, has reassuring news: the heavy sleep debt that most of us have racked up through years of high-stress, stimulant-filled living can be recouped. According to Breus, by calculating the amount of sleep needed and eliminating habits that conflict with a healthy sleep regiment and disrupt natural circadian rhythms, most people can achieve full, deep and restful sleep without pharmaceuticals; resist major diseases; lose weight; think more clearly; look younger; and improve their relationships and sex life. Even those who travel frequently or work on revolving shifts, Breus says, can implement simple strategies to get quality sleep. He offers a 28-night program in which readers go through "sleep boot camp," including a sleep diary, bedroom makeover, diet overhaul, exercise and relaxation techniques. By taking quizzes and examining lifestyles, readers will pinpoint obvious (anxiety, caffeine) and not-so-obvious (medications, hormones, confused body clocks) causes for insomnia and exhaustion. He discusses the pros and cons of taking medication, as well as the dangers of taking melatonin. Breus's enthusiasm for his subject is as attractive as his promises-and may make readers eager to do some hard work tackling stubborn habits that stand in the way of a good night's sleep.
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