A short but engaging analysis of why we sleep and how to improve our sleep hygiene.

In Sleep, psychologist Christine Parsons lays out the benefits of sleeping for our bodies, minds, and societies. The negative effects of chronic sleep deprivation include correlations with Alzheimer’s disease, relationship problems, and car crashes. To combat sleep deprivation, Parsons studies the effects of melatonin and caffeine and the importance of light and the circadian rhythm on the quality of our sleep. She provides helpful tricks, training, and therapy to overcome the most common obstacles to better sleep hygiene. Exploring different sleep styles and choices, Parsons assesses which ones work and which ones don’t--helping lead us to a better night’s rest.

In Reflections, a series copublished with Denmark’s Aarhus University Press, scholars deliver 60-page reflections on key concepts. These books present unique insights on a wide range of topics that entertain and enlighten readers with exciting discoveries and new perspectives.