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 encompasses trends like the ‘sleepy girl mocktail’ which has 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 optimising one’s sleep as much as possible, often by focusing on improving both the quantity and quality of sleep. It involves utilising 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.”
Easy ways to improve zzzzz.
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,” confirms 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: “Utilising smart devices like sleep trackers, noise machines, or light therapy lamps to optimise 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, prioritising 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:
● Enhanced mood and emotional regulation.
● Better cognitive function, including memory, focus, and decision-making.
● Improved physical health, as sleep is vital for the immune system, hormone regulation, and cellular repair.
● Reduced risk of chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
● Increased productivity and energy levels during the day."
What are the drawbacks of sleepmaxxing?
As with most things TikTok-led, there's no verification on the information put out there, which means non-health experts are encouraging and advising practices that may (or may not) have a health benefit. “While sleepmaxxing can have significant benefits, there are potential risks if it is taken to extremes or misunderstood,” notes Dr Seeta. These include:
● Over-focusing on sleep: "Becoming overly fixated on perfecting sleep can lead to stress or anxiety, which ironically can disrupt sleep rather than improve it. This condition is sometimes referred to as ‘orthosomnia’ — a preoccupation with achieving perfect sleep," says Dr Seeta.
● Sleep disruption from gadgets: "Some sleep-maximising gadgets, such as sleep trackers or blue light-emitting devices, can sometimes do more harm than good if not used properly. They may interfere with natural sleep patterns or lead to obsession over sleep data,” she says.
● Unrealistic expectations: "Not everyone has the same sleep needs, and following rigid sleepmaxxing routines might cause unnecessary frustration for those who don't experience the same results. For example, trying to sleep for excessively long periods may make one feel groggy instead of rested," Dr Seeta points out.
● Misinformation: "Some sleep advice shared on social media may not be evidence-based or suitable for everyone, leading people to adopt practices that could interfere with their individual sleep needs,” Dr Seeta says.
So, once again, it's one of those trends that needs to be taken with a pinch of salt. Prioritising your sleep is great, but it's best to weigh up what works for you when it comes to gadgets and complicated routines. If you're overthinking your sleep, you might just be hindering it too.
For more from GLAMOUR's Senior Beauty Editor, Elle Turner, follow her on Instagram @elleturneruk
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