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The ‘Sleepmaxxing’ Trend: Gen Z’s Quest for Optimal Sleep
You’ve probably recently seen it on the news. In the ever-evolving health and wellness landscape, a new trend has emerged among Gen Z, dubbed “sleepmaxxing.” Now, here’s a word not yet in your dictionary!
This sleep optimization phenomenon, gaining traction on social media platforms like TikTok, involves a passionate pursuit of achieving the perfect night’s sleep through various unconventional and sometimes controversial methods.
Obsession with getting the “perfect” night’s sleep can lead to anxiety, insomnia, and feelings of failure if sleep goals aren’t met. Over-reliance on sleep trackers and other sleep monitoring devices sometimes causes people to become obsessed with getting enough sleep.
What is Sleepmaxxing?
At its core, sleepmaxxing is about eliminating any potential disturbances and utilizing various sleep-enhancing tools and techniques to achieve what is often termed “perfect sleep.” Devotees of this trend use a variety of methods, including mouth taping to promote nasal breathing, consuming “sleepy girl mocktails” made from seltzer, tart cherry juice and magnesium powder, using jaw straps, melatonin supplements, red light therapy, and breathing strips.
The Motivation Behind Sleepmaxxing
The drive behind sleepmaxxing is rooted in the widespread sleep deprivation (real or imaginary) affecting many, particularly among Gen Z. A staggering 93% of Gen Z admit to losing sleep due to social media use, highlighting the significant impact of digital habits on sleep patterns. With only 25% of Americans achieving the recommended eight hours of sleep per night, the quest for better rest is more urgent than ever.
Methods and Controversies
While some methods may seem innovative, they are still subject to controversy. For instance, mouth taping, which is supposed to reduce snoring and enhance oxygenation, lacks substantial evidence to support its effectiveness and may obscure symptoms of severe sleep disorders like sleep apnea, ultimately worsening sleep quality.
Although the “sleepy girl mocktail” can promote relaxation, it raises concerns about excessive magnesium intake…
