TED Series
Sleeping with Science Sleeping with Science Sleeping with Science

Sleeping with Science

Sleep — we spend one-third of our lives doing it, but what exactly do we get out of it? And how can we do it better? In this new TED series, sleep scientist Matt Walker uncovers the facts and secrets behind our nightly slumber. Tune in weekly for better zzz's! (Made possible with the support of Beautyrest)
Episodes
4:47
Matt Walker

A walk through the stages of sleep

Did you know you go on a journey every night after you close your eyes? Sleep scientist Matt Walker breaks down the difference between REM (Rapid-Eye Movement) and non-REM sleep, what occurs during each stage of sleep -- and why it's important to get enough of both.
4:54
Matt Walker

How caffeine and alcohol affect your sleep

Caffeine wakes you up, and alcohol makes you nod off, right? It's not that simple. Sleep scientist Matt Walker takes us into the eye-opening ways that these drinks affect the quantity and quality of our sleep.
4:42
Matt Walker

Hacking your memory -- with sleep

We've all been told to get a good night's sleep before a test -- finally, here's the reason why. Sleep scientist Matt Walker explains how getting enough sleep affects how our brains store and process memories.
5:07
Matt Walker

What's the connection between sleep and Alzheimer's disease?

Does not getting enough sleep lead to Alzheimer's disease? Sleep scientist Matt Walker explains the relationship between the two -- and how researchers are exploring how to use sleep to decrease our chances of developing this condition.
3:40
Matt Walker

How sleep affects your emotions

It's not just your imagination -- you're more irritable when you're low on zzzzs. Sleep scientist Matt Walker explains how our nightly slumber affects the emotional centers in our brains, and why we can think of sleep as first aid for our feelings.
2:17
Matt Walker

How sleep can improve your immunity

One of the best things that you can do to boost your immune system is head to bed, says sleep scientist Matt Walker. It can even make your flu shot more effective!
2:54
Matt Walker

How much sleep do you really need?

You know you need to get enough sleep, but the question remains: How much is enough? Sleep scientist Matt Walker tells us the recommended amount for adults and explains why it's necessary for your long-term health.
5:28
Matt Walker

6 tips for better sleep

Want to not only fall asleep quickly but also stay asleep longer? Sleep scientist Matt Walker explains how your room temperature, lighting and other easy-to-fix factors can set the stage for a better night's rest.
2:05
partner content
Beautyrest

Innovations in sleep

The way we sleep is constantly evolving -- from the first raised beds in ancient Egypt to communal sleeping as a way to keep warm during the Industrial Revolution to separate beds for married couples in Victorian England. Now that we've begun to study sleep as a science, we're starting to understand just how important a good night's sleep can be to our health and happiness.