The New York Times offers the pro argument for “natural” sleep, which involves treatments such as aromatherapy and “sleep spas.”

“Sleep is always there in the background of your consciousness,” he said. “These clinical attempts at sleep are imbued with a sense of determination, but that very thing undermines the process.”

So, Dr. Naiman said: “The core issue is learning to surrender, to let go. Sleep is delicious, it’s not just a servant of waking life. It’s to be indulged.”