In an era where sleep deprivation is increasingly common, adults are seeking the expertise of sleep coaches to improve their rest. Recent findings from a 2023 Gallup poll reveal that 57 percent of Americans believe they would feel better with more sleep, a significant rise from 43 percent in 2013. The trend highlights a growing awareness of the importance of sleep, with only about a quarter of those surveyed managing to achieve the recommended eight hours each night—down from 34 percent a decade ago.
Historically, sleep coaches primarily focused on infants and the challenges faced by their parents. However, as anxiety levels around sleep have surged, more adults are recognizing the need for support in transforming their sleep habits. Sleep consultant Elana Klein, who has over twenty years of experience in the field, emphasizes that improving sleep involves more than just basic hygiene practices.
Understanding the Complexities of Sleep
Klein points out that many adults approach her with one of two main issues: a significant life event disrupting their sleep or a long-standing pattern of insomnia. Stress from work, personal loss, or relationship changes often leads to sleep disturbances. In her practice, Klein frequently encounters clients who have struggled with sleep issues since childhood, which can become ingrained in their identity.
Klein notes, “Sleep is always the first thing to go,” during times of distress. She describes how some clients come to her with chronic sleep issues, believing they are “insomniacs” after years of restless nights. In her sessions, she focuses on unraveling the underlying factors affecting their sleep, often revealing habits that interfere with their ability to rest.
One case involved a client who consumed most of their daily calories at night, leading to frequent awakenings to eat. Another client, an active woman, realized she was waking every hour to use the restroom due to excessive water intake. Klein’s approach addresses both nighttime behaviors and daytime routines, creating a comprehensive plan to improve sleep quality.
Transforming Habits and Mindsets
Klein emphasizes the importance of addressing the stories individuals tell themselves about sleep. Many believe that needing sleep signifies a lack of productivity or that they can function on minimal rest. She encourages clients to redefine their relationship with sleep, viewing it as a necessary component of well-being rather than a luxury.
In her sessions, which typically span twelve meetings over three months, Klein combines various techniques, including journaling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and breath work. She maintains communication between sessions to offer support and motivation, recognizing that many friends and colleagues may tire of hearing about sleep struggles.
The modern world presents unique challenges to sleep, with overstimulation from screens and constant notifications contributing to anxiety. Klein explains that the phenomenon of “doomscrolling” floods the brain with stress hormones, making it difficult for individuals to unwind. She advises clients to set aside specific times for worry, helping them to compartmentalize their concerns and prevent them from intruding on sleep.
Klein’s belief is that it is never too late to change sleep patterns. She encourages individuals to confront their sleep challenges proactively, advocating for a mindset shift that prioritizes rest as a fundamental right. As more adults grapple with sleep-related issues, the demand for specialized coaching continues to grow, offering hope for those yearning for restorative rest.
