Book Excerpt LEARNING ABOUT SLEEPWhy has there been so much ignorance about sleep? The topic is rarely taught in educational settings and until recently has not been part of the medical school curriculum. Not until 1996 did the American Medical Association recognize sleep medicine as a specialty. It is no small wonder that most of us know little about the importance of sleep, the incredibly varied activity that occurs during the course of each night, sleep disorders, and the role of sleep in determining subsequent alertness. Even sleep researchers are just beginning to fully comprehend the mysteries of sleep and its powerful consequences for the quality of life. In Power Sleep I share important discoveries from sleep laboratories throughout the world, to increase your awareness of the importance of sleep; help you determine your individual sleep requirement; show you how to establish good sleep habits; improve your alertness, mood, productivity, quality of life; and possibly increase your life span. Don't get too uptight about a little sleep loss from time to time. But if you're often sleep-deprived, feel sluggish and drowsy during the day, and are not performing at a level close to your potential, I'll try to help. By following the advice in this book you will be able to use the power of sleep to prepare your mind for peak performance. You will become a different person--the person you, your parents, your spouse, your children, and your boss always wanted you to be. You should find the material in this book interesting and full of invaluable suggestions. If not, it will put you to sleep--which is perhaps even more helpful! --From Power Sleep : The Revolutionary Program That Prepares Your Mind for Peak Performance, by James B. Maas, et al. © April 1998 | |