Dr Carmel Harrington is a sleep research scientist and an internationally recognised sleep expert. Carmel researches the true science behind sleep and explains the critical link between sleep, health, performance and creativity. Drawing from the latest sleep research, she reveals the science behind what happens to our bodies when we don't get enough sleep, and how this critically affects our hormones, our metabolism and how we think and feel. Dr Harrington has been working in the world of sleep for nearly 20 years. A former lawyer and educator she has a PHD in Sleep Medicine from Sydney University and consults with companies and educational institutions both here and overseas on sleep health. Emerging research clearly shows that sleeping well is a key component to optimal performance and health and if we want to be at the top of our game we need to ensure we get the best sleep possible. Carmel has written two books "The Sleep Diet" and "The complete guide to a good night's sleep". Here’s what we discuss in this week’s show: Why is sleep so important to us? What is science telling us about the chronic effects of lack of sleep on health, wellness and mental performance? What are MRI’s showing us about the effect of sleep on the brain? Does lack of sleep effect us physically as well as mentally? Can we access our dreaming unconscious brain to unlock our creativity? Hacks to access your creative and imaginative brain through REM sleep. As we get older do we need less sleep? Tips to help you get better sleep and REM. Do cat naps help our performance and productivity? Is there science behind a just a 20 minute cat nap? The difference in sleep patterns between men and women Can lack of sleep effect our performance in the bedroom? How do I know I have had a good nights sleep? Can gratitude journalling at night have a positive effect on our brain and improve the quality of our sleep?
