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Want to know TikTok's latest obsession? Recently, the platform has become hyper-focused on establishing optimal sleep conditions. The term “sleepmaxxing” has suddenly surged on the social media app as an overarching term for improving slumber. It includes trends like the ‘morning shed’ and the ‘sleepy girl mocktail’ which have been gaining momentum for boosting snoozing.
But, health experts are wary of how effective (and accurate) some of the information is. Glamour spoke to Dr. Seeta Shah, GP, and sleep adviser for Panda London, to get to the bottom off what sleepmaxxing is and whether it really helps (or hinders) some good shut-eye.
What is sleepmaxxing?
According to Dr. Seeta, “sleepmaxxing refers to the practice of optimizing one’s sleep as much as possible, often by focusing on improving both the quantity and quality of sleep. It involves utilizing various techniques, routines, and even gadgets to ensure more restful, deeper, and prolonged sleep.”
She adds: “sleepmaxxing may also include lifestyle changes, such as adjusting sleep environments, adhering to strict sleep schedules, or incorporating calming pre-sleep rituals like meditation, herbal teas, or using sleep-enhancing apps.”
Why is sleepmaxxing trending on TikTok?
We've seen wellness explode over the past decade and sleep remains one of the most hotly examined factors given its impact on overall physical and mental health. “Sleepmaxxing has gained traction on TikTok as part of a broader wellness trend,” says Dr. Seeta. “Many individuals, especially younger generations, are increasingly aware of the importance of self-care and mental health, with sleep being a fundamental aspect. Influencers and content creators on the platform are sharing their personal sleepmaxxing routines, products, and tips. The trend is also visual, which fits well with TikTok’s short-form video format, where users post aesthetically pleasing content about their cosy sleep environments, bedtime rituals, or gadgets they use to maximise rest,” she says.
Who's doing it?
Unsurprisingly, Gen Z and millennials are leading the charge on this one. “Particularly those interested in health, wellness, and self-improvement,” notes Dr. Seeta. “Influencers, sleep enthusiasts, and even some healthcare professionals contribute to this trend by sharing their advice and sleep experiences. Additionally, individuals who are concerned about burnout, mental health, or who are trying to improve their productivity or focus may be drawn to sleepmaxxing practices,” she says.
What are these sleep trends?
Since sleepmaxxing is an over-arching trend, you'll see many micro movements and trends playing into the practice. “There are several related sleep trends circulating on platforms like TikTok,” says Dr. Seeta, including:
● Sleep hygiene routines: This involves “establishing specific rituals before bed, such as dimming lights, limiting screen time, and avoiding caffeine to enhance sleep quality,” says Dr. Seeta.
● Weighted blankets: “Using heavy blankets to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety,” she says.
● Sleep gadgets: “Utilizing smart devices like sleep trackers, noise machines, or light therapy lamps to optimize the sleep environment.”
● Polyphasic sleep: This means “experimenting with alternative sleep patterns, such as taking multiple naps throughout the day instead of one long sleep at night,” says Dr. Seeta.
● Lucid dreaming techniques: “Trying methods to control dreams and enhance their vividness,” she says.
What are the benefits of sleepmaxxing?
Of course, prioritizing good sleep is important for our overall wellbeing. “The primary benefit of sleepmaxxing is that it promotes better sleep, which is crucial for overall health,” says Dr. Seeta, who adds that improved sleep can lead to:
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