The latest wellness craze to hit TikTok is “sleepmaxxing”, a trend that claims to boost sleep quality through a mix of bedtime rituals. From melatonin supplements to nasal dilators and white noise machines, followers of this trend are sharing their self-proclaimed hacks to achieve a perfect night’s rest. But does it actually work?
What is Sleepmaxxing?
At its core, sleepmaxxing is a collection of practices aimed at optimizing sleep. These may include taking sleep aids like melatonin or magnesium, using devices to improve nasal airflow, and relying on white noise to block disturbances. Social media users are embracing these methods in hopes of improving their sleep amidst busy, stressful lives.
Does it Really Work?
Experts believe the growing focus on sleep is positive. Dr. Jag Sunderram, a professor at Rutgers University, highlights that we now understand the importance of sleep for overall health—something that was underestimated in the past. However, while some of the “hacks” are backed by evidence, others may pose risks.
Caution with “Sleep Hacks”
Not all sleepmaxxing techniques are safe for everyone. For instance, melatonin supplements can help some people, but consulting a healthcare provider is essential before starting any supplement routine. Similarly, nasal dilators and mouth taping—popular among sleepmaxxing enthusiasts—lack solid evidence and could be harmful, particularly for those with existing health conditions.
Avoid Turning Sleep Into a Chore
Dr. Anita Shelgikar, a sleep medicine expert, warns that becoming too obsessed with optimizing sleep could backfire, turning the act of resting into a stressful task. “The key is to keep sleep simple and restorative,” she advises. Focusing too much on perfecting your sleep could increase anxiety, which, ironically, could worsen sleep quality.
In conclusion, while sleepmaxxing offers an interesting approach to improving rest, it’s crucial to approach it with caution and consult experts to avoid potential harm. Sometimes, the best sleep hack is simply keeping things relaxed and stress-free.
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