Professor Russell Foster; Sleep, Circadian Neuroscience & Human Performance

EPISODE 11:  Sleep, Circadian Neuroscience & Human PerformanceIn this episode, Martin and Jonpaul talk to Professor Russell Foster, a world-renowned expert on sleep and circadian rhythms. They discuss the importance of sleep and circadian rhythms for human performance, how the circadian system provides the time structure for life, optimising physiology and behavior, and highlight some evidence-based strategies for enhancing sleep quality and quantity.  Guest, Cast & CrewRussell Foster is Professor of Circadian Neuroscience, director of the Sir Jules Thorn Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute and the head of The Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology at the University of Oxford. Russell’s research interests span visual and circadian neurobiology, focusing on the mechanisms by which light regulates circadian rhythms. Russell has published hundreds of peer-reviewed articles and books, including his recent book, ‘Life Time: the New Science of the Body Clock and How It Can Revolutionize Your Sleep and Health’.  Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk Edited by Bess ManleyProduced by Wavell Room https://wavellroom.com/ ResourcesSir Jules Thorn Sleep & Circadian Neuroscience Institute https://www.scni.ox.ac.ukNuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford https://www.ndcn.ox.ac.uk/team/russell-foster ‘Life Time: the New Science of the Body Clock and How It Can Revolutionize Your Sleep and Health’ by Russell Foster https://www.pemberleybooks.com/product/the-ecology-of-vision/34916/ ‘The Ecology of Vision’ by John Lythgoe‘Blitzed’ by Norman Ohler If you enjoy this content, please like and subscribe so we can keep improving. Remember to visit wavellroom.com for the latest articles, podcasts, and newsletters. Chapters00:28 Journey into Circadian Rhythm Research01:56 Understanding Circadian Rhythms03:43 Consequences of Sleep Deprivation09:25 Mental Health and Sleep15:16 Shift Work and Health Impacts25:45 The Role of Light in Circadian Rhythms36:38 Understanding HPO and Sleep37:22 Strategies for Better Sleep37:46 The Role of Light and Relaxation39:06 Avoiding Sleep Disruptors40:48 The Importance of Routine and Naps43:42 Challenges of Night Shift Work47:17 Impact of Light on Sleep58:55 Food and Circadian RhythmsUp NextNext week, we’re delighted to welcome consultant psychiatrist Professor Steve Peters to discuss his work in optimising human performance. From the NHS to elite sport, Steve helps people understand how the mind works, gain insight into their own minds, and develop the skills to optimize individual performance and quality of life. We discuss his famous chimp model, imposter syndrome, and the antecedents of high performance. Thanks for listening to Optimising Human Performance.This podcast is for people who can’t afford to fail. Each episode gives you practical, evidence‑based tools you can apply in the real world.For more about the podcast, speaking, coaching, and mentoring, visit:www.ophp.co.ukConnect with us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/Instagram: @ophumanperformanceIf you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.