# @danbuettner on Instagram

- **Type:** Video
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DcysqQUufgE
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/69908290-danbuettner-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/03ae4c5533.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-09-02T16:49:36.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Dan Buettner (@danbuettner) — https://gondola.cc/danbuettner

## Caption

“I’d rather you take a shot of whiskey than take an over-the-counter sleep aid.”

Sleep specialist Dr. Michael Breus (@thesleepdoctor ) joined @thedanbuettnerpodcast to discuss a serious risk sitting in millions of medicine cabinets: chronic reliance on nighttime sleep aids.

Many popular over-the-counter formulas (often labeled “PM” or “ZZZ”) rely on diphenhydramine, the active antihistamine in Benadryl. While they induce drowsiness, research links regular, long-term use to an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

In the world’s Blue Zones, restorative rest is not forced with a pill. It is built naturally into the daily rhythm through the Power 9 principle of Downshifting: natural movement during the day, light evening meals, dim lighting after sunset, and consistent wind-down rituals.

Before reaching for a nightly sedative, look at your environment. Designing a soothing evening routine helps your body relax on its own.

Full episode linked in bio. 

What is your go-to routine for unwinding before bed? 

#bluezones #sleephealth #drmichaelbreus #longevity #brainhealth downshifting healthyaging

## Stats

- **Views:** 214,125
- **Likes:** 3,658
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 96

## Tags

bluezones, brainhealth, longevity, drmichaelbreus, sleephealth

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