Sleep Myths You Can Ignore
These sleep experts lift the covers on our commonly held beliefs.
By Corrie Pikul
"Almost everyone needs eight hours."
Most people need closer to seven or seven and a half hours, says Michael Breus, PhD, clinical psychologist and author of The Sleep Doctor's Diet Plan, and adds that some people get by just fine with six and a half. If you're going to bed and waking up at the same time almost every night, sleeping comfortably, and aren't drowsy, run-down or desperate for a nap during the day, then your schedule works for you. If you think you're one of those people who need less than six hours, you're probably kidding yourself. While a select group of "super sleepers" can get by on barely any shut-eye, they're extremely rare and make up only 1 to 3 percent of the population.
Published 11/14/2013
As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.