January 2026

The Future of Sleep

Sleep is one of the more mysterious biological functions. Why do we need it in the first place? Will we one day be able to live without it? What is our brain doing when it dreams? And, of course, how can I get more of it? The more you dig, the more fascinating — and sometimes weirder — sleep gets.

Inside the Issue

Reel Science

What Sci-Fi Gets So Wrong About Suspended Animation

By Mark Hill

The idea of extending life with deep sleep has been a sci-fi staple for decades. So, how close are we?

Counting Geese

How Birds Sleep — And Why It Matters

By Jillian Mock

If only we could snooze like a bird.

Space Slumber

How Do Astronauts Sleep?

By Ryan Britt

In space, it’s always a hard day’s night.

Sleeper Hits

The 11 Most Iconic Sci-Fi Stories About Sleep Of All Time

By Ryan Britt

The limits of the human mind don’t have to remain in the waking state.

Sleep No More

The Nightmarish Vision of Life Without Sleep

How much would a life without sleep cost you? More than you might think.

What Happens To Your Brain When You Have Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea

Left unchecked, the effects can ripple into how you think, feel, and function.

Why You Wake Up Exhausted, Even After 8 Hours Of Sleep

Getting enough sleep but still waking up wiped? A sleep expert explains what’s actually going on.

The Long-Term Effects Of A Sleep Disorder That Often Goes Unnoticed

Why early awareness of obstructive sleep apnea matters more than most people think.

Can You Hack Your Sleep Apnea? Experts Say These Tools Might Help

Small changes and expert-backed strategies to improve nightly rest.

Health

Does Tracking Lead To Better Sleep?

By Tyghe Trimble

What a long, deep rest with Samsung’s Galaxy Ring says about my health, habits, and the pursuit of better sleep.

Health

Catching Up On Sleep On the Weekend Might Actually Be Really Good for Your Heart

By Elana Spivack

Sleeping late on your days off isn’t as lazy as you might think.

Health

This Big Study Found A Sleep Aid Hiding In Plain Sight

By Elana Spivack

The path to better sleep might be more straightforward than we all thought.

Detox

This Extremely Common Sleeping Behavior Is Never Normal

By Elana Spivack

As much as 40 percent of adults snore, but when does a common behavior signal a problem?

Detox

This Odd Yet Common Nighttime Habit Has Stumped Sleep Researchers

By Elana Spivack

You’re more likely to wake up at certain points in the night than others.

Health

A Sleep Scientist Reveals the Hidden Secrets to Overcoming Jet Lag

By Elana Spivack

The temporary full-body hangover affects every part of your body.

Health

Can this Common Element Cure America’s Sleep Problems?

By Miriam Fauzia

Magnesium is one of the key ingredients of the viral “sleepy girl mocktail.” Here’s the science behind its purported sleep benefits.

Detox

3 Backwards Sleep Science “Hacks” That Can Help Cure Your Insomnia

By Elana Spivack

Two sleep experts reveal what it really takes to get a good night’s rest.

Health

Study Finds a "Hierarchy" of Physical Activities Healthier Than Sitting — Sleeping is One

By Miriam Fauzia

Moderate-vigorous activity and even lighter intensity, like sleeping, benefit the heart.

Health

How Much Sleep Do You Need When You Are Sick? A Lot More Than You Think

By Miriam Fauzia

When we’re sick, all we want to do is sleep. But it is far easier said than done.