Podcast

This podcast episode and video segment explore the intersection of happiness, sleep science, and spirituality through a conversation with Dr. Sanjay Verma, Chief Sleep Officer at Jensen Beds, Norway. He emphasizes the evolving nature of personal happiness, the crucial role of sleep in mood and performance, and spirituality as a lifestyle of inner growth and acceptance. Practical advice includes effective sleep habits such as sleep hygiene, consistent wake times, and avoiding stimulants before bedtime. The discussion highlights work-life balance, especially in Scandinavian culture, and how organizations can foster well-being through empathy and support. Scientific insights introduce binaural music as a method to promote deep relaxation and facilitate sleep. The spiritual dimension of sleep is discussed as a renewal process promoting overall well-being. The episode concludes with a gratitude ceremony emphasizing the integration of sleep science with leadership, happiness, and personal growth, urging the audience to prioritize sleep as a vital and productive activity that enhances all aspects of life.

Background

Dr. Sanjay Verma brings a rare blend of expertise in strategic management, design, and sleep science. Leading as Chief Sleep Officer at Jensen Beds, he champions innovative approaches to improve sleep quality globally—from everyday consumers to Olympic athletes. His role is not just corporate but deeply personal, emphasizing rest, rhythm, and renewal as foundations of human performance and happiness. This podcast episode, hosted by Professor Nitin Arora, aims to broaden the understanding of happiness by integrating scientific knowledge, leadership, and spirituality.

Main Points

1. Personal Happiness Through Simplicity and Presence

Dr. Verma highlights that happiness him has evolved from grand achievements to appreciating small everyday moments. At age 60, happiness comes from simple pleasures such as spending time with family, walking in nature, and maintaining a regular exercise routine. This shift reflects a deeper acceptance of impermanence—the understanding that both joy and hardship are transient. He recounts a meditation retreat that fundamentally altered his perspective, teaching him to embrace “this too shall pass,” which helps him navigate professional and personal challenges with equanimity. His morning ritual of stretching, yoga, and light aerobics prepares him physically and mentally for the day ahead, emphasizing consistency and mindfulness as keys to sustained happiness.

2. The Critical Role of Sleep in Mood and Performance

Despite decades in the mattress industry, Dr. Verma confesses that only in recent years has he truly grasped the impact of quality sleep on well-being. He notes a marked difference in mood and cognitive function when his sleep quality declines, underscoring sleep as a non-negotiable pillar of health. Drawing parallels with Elon Musk’s disciplined sleep habits, Dr. Verma stresses the importance of a consistent sleep schedule and the negative consequences of sleep deprivation or excess. He advocates avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime and establishing a calm wind-down period to facilitate better sleep onset.

3. Organizational Happiness Rooted in Sleep Awareness

At Jensen Beds, Dr. Verma’s role transcends product development; it extends to cultivating a workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being. The company integrates scientific sleep knowledge into product innovation and employee programs, including nap cubicles and sleep health assessments.He contrasts the demanding work cultures of Japan and the United States with the Scandinavian model, where work-life balance is institutionalized. For instance, Swedish employees typically disconnect from work communications after hours and enjoy generous parental leave. These societal supports reduce stress and indirectly boost happiness and productivity. In his with Olympic athletes, Dr. Varmi tailors sleep strategies to optimize their performance, noting that athletes require longer and deeper sleep than most corporate employees, who often neglect rest due to work pressures.

4. Spirituality as a Journey Toward Inner Balance

Dr. Verma defines spirituality not in religious terms but as a commitment to becoming a better person and finding meaning in one’s actions and relationships. His experience at 10-day silent meditation retreat introduced him to Vipassana meditation—a practice of inward reflection and mindfulness.He integrates spirituality into daily life through reflective walks without distractions, focusing on sensory experiences and the present moment. This practice fosters grounding and acceptance, key to handling life’s uncertainties. He also emphasizes impermanence as a spiritual mantra, helping him maintain equanimity through life’s highs and lows.

5. Practical Sleep Tips and Cultural Insights

Dr. Verma shares actionable advice for better sleep: maintain consistent sleep and wake times, avoid late-night stimulants like caffeine, and create a transitional wind-down period before bed. He advocates exercise and mindful relaxation, noting that these simple lifestyle adjustments can dramatically improve sleep quality and overall happiness.He also discusses cultural differences in work-rest balance and sleep practices, highlighting the Scandinavian approach as a model for sustainable employee well-being.

Conclusion

Dr. Sanjay Verma’s insights weave a rich tapestry connecting science, leadership, and spirituality to illuminate the path toward happiness. At the core lies the recognition that quality sleep is foundational—not only to physical health but to emotional resilience, cognitive performance, and spiritual growth. His message is clear: happiness is accessible through small, consistent habits, acceptance of life’s impermanence, and a conscious effort to balance work, rest, and reflection. For individuals and organizations alike, prioritizing sleep and fostering empathetic, supportive environments can unlock greater productivity, creativity, and joy. As Dr. Verma eloquently concludes, sleep is not a luxury or loss of time; instead, it is the vital process that sharpens our tools to live fully and harmoniously.

Summary of key happiness and sleep practices from Dr. Sanjay Verma:

• Personal happiness: Cherish small moments, maintain close relationships, embrace impermanence.
• Sleep hygiene: Consistent sleep/wake schedule, avoid late stimulants, create a calming pre-sleep routine.
• Organizational culture: Promote work-life balance, support rest with nap rooms and education, foster empathy and accountability.
• Spirituality: Practice mindfulness and reflection, seek inner balance, accept life’s transient nature.

Practical tools: Move regularly, listen to calming binaural music, use scientifically designed sleep products. By integrating these principles, we can nurture a happier, healthier, and more harmonious life both personally and professionally.