Ask Me Anything Part 15: Beauty Sleep, Naps, 3 AM Wake-Ups & Axl Rose with Dr. Eti Ben Simon

In their latest AMA episode, Matt and Eti address listener questions ranging from "beauty sleep" to 3 AM awakenings. They explore the scientific evidence supporting sleep's crucial role in skin health and perceived attractiveness, citing studies on the effects of sleep deprivation. The cognitive benefits of napping are discussed, highlighting its ability to enhance learning and memory consolidation. They also delve into the remarkable neural activity of deep non-REM sleep, including synchronized neuron firing and accelerated memory replay. The common concern of sleep debt is also a key topic. The discussion then turns to practical strategies for managing disruptive midnight awakenings. Our hosts debunk common myths and explain the physiological factors involved, such as body temperature fluctuations and adenosine clearance. They provide evidence-based techniques to quiet the mind and promote a return to sleep, including controlled breathing, non-sleep deep rest, and cognitive approaches. Finally, they touch on the concept of "hypnopedia" (in-sleep learning), largely refuted by research, and the more promising technique of targeted memory reactivation, which uses sleep cues to enhance memory. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. Tired of untrustworthy protein shakes? Show sponsor Puori prioritizes quality: hormone-free, GMO-free, and pesticide-free. Every batch is third-party tested for 200+ contaminants - you can even scan the QR code for lab results! Matt recommends the addictive dark chocolate flavor with 21g of protein. Ready to experience the Puori difference? Matt’s listeners get 20% off, so visit puori.com/mattwalker today! Another great sponsor of the show is AG1, a comprehensive nutritional drink trusted by thousands worldwide, including Matt! For nearly four years and counting, he has relied on AG1 to fuel his post-workout routine with its powerhouse blend of over 75 essential minerals, vitamins, probiotics, and prebiotics, meticulously crafted to support your daily nutritional needs. AG1 is registered and approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, boasting GMP badges for quality assurance. As a special offer for our listeners, when you try AG1, you'll receive a complimentary one-year supply of both Vitamin D and K2, and with your first subscription, you'll also receive five free AG1 travel packs! Visit AG1 to explore AG1's range of offerings and claim your exclusive offer. Another sponsor, 23andMe, provides genetic insights into health and sleep, and Matt, who has used it for eight years to understand genetic risks, is impressed by their sleep-focused data. With details on chronotype—whether you’re genetically more inclined to be a morning person or night owl—along with insights on sleep quality, depth, and insomnia risk, 23andMe’s reports offer valuable understanding of your unique sleep patterns. Explore your sleep genetics at 23andMe.com/MattWalker for 10% off your service. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt or Eti: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat , YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299 Eti: X @etoosh, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eti_bensimon/ , or email at etoosh@gmail.com