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Achieving a good night's sleep has become increasingly challenging for many people today. Factors such as insomnia, work-related stress, academic pressures, and even excessive screen time are making it difficult for people to fall asleep or experience deep, restful sleep. As modern lifestyles grow more hectic, the number of individuals struggling with sleep-related issues continues to rise, reflecting a growing concern over the impact of poor sleep on overall health and well-being. Despite widespread awareness of sleep’s importance, many still find themselves battling nightly disruptions, further fuelling anxiety around sleep quality.
Recent data shows that 61 percent of people in India have been sleeping less than six hours per night over the past year, a rise from 50 percent in 2022. This growing trend of sleep deprivation is raising concerns as sleep problems become a daily struggle for many.
In response, a unique social media trend called "sleepmaxxing" has emerged. Experts and influencers now demonstrate techniques aimed at helping people improve their sleep quality. These methods, which include tools and supplements like mouth tape, magnesium oil, and sleep trackers, are part of a larger movement to 'perfect sleep.'
What is Sleepmaxxing?
Sleepmaxxing is the practice of enhancing sleep by eliminating disturbances and using aids like jaw straps, melatonin supplements, and red light therapy. It can also refer more casually to getting as much sleep as possible, sometimes even at the expense of daily responsibilities. Influencers promote this content online, often aiming to drive sales of these products.
In India, the sleep aid market is projected to generate USD 28 million in revenue in 2024, with a growth rate of 9.55% over the next four years. In the US, where the sleepmaxxing trend began, the market is significantly larger, at an estimated USD 32,024 million. Experts link the growing obsession with sleep to the expanding market.
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The Impact of Poor Sleep
A lack of sleep has been tied to chronic health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression. However, despite the growing awareness about the importance of sleep, many people are still struggling to get enough rest. Dr. Sneha Sharma, psychiatrist and co-founder of Anvaya Healthcare, says, “It has become increasingly difficult for people to fall asleep or get a good night's rest, particularly given today's lifestyle. Factors such as limited physical activity and excessive screen time are contributing to greater difficulties.”
Dr. Shankar S Biradar, medical director of mattress brand Magniflex India, echoes this sentiment: “A good night's sleep has become a coveted treasure, with many striving to optimise their rest to enhance performance, health, and well-being."
Sleep Anxiety and Orthosomnia
While sleepmaxxing aims to improve sleep, it can sometimes have the opposite effect, leading to a condition known as "orthosomnia." This is when the obsession with perfect sleep causes anxiety, which in turn worsens sleep quality. Dr. Biradar explains, “The pressure to achieve perfection can lead to counterproductive outcomes. When people become overly preoccupied with sleep, they may experience heightened anxiety and stress, known contributors to sleep disturbances.”
Sleep Disturbances Across Generations
According to a 2022 study published in Sleep Medicine Reviews, Gen Z faces more sleep disturbances than previous generations. Meanwhile, millennials are making sleep a higher priority, while baby boomers are grappling with age-related issues like insomnia and sleep apnoea.
Over-Reliance on Sleep Technology
There has been a rise in the use of apps and wearables designed to track sleep patterns. While these can offer insights, excessive reliance on technology can foster anxiety about sleep performance, which may make it harder to actually rest. Dr. Biradar warns that strict adherence to sleep schedules can also be detrimental, causing stress when disrupted by social events or travel.
He adds, “Occasional poor sleep is natural and does not negate overall good sleep health.”
Sleep Supplements and Techniques
Sleep supplements like magnesium and sleep aids such as mouth taping are gaining popularity. However, experts say more research is needed. Dr. Ravi Shankerji, a sleep expert at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bengaluru, points out that while magnesium could be effective, lifestyle changes are essential for better results. “It is not necessary that it works in every case,” he says.
Similarly, mouth taping, which promotes nasal breathing, may help reduce snoring and improve oxygenation, but it is not suitable for everyone. Experts recommend consulting a healthcare professional before trying these techniques, particularly for individuals with conditions like sleep apnoea or respiratory issues.
In conclusion, while sleepmaxxing offers several potential benefits, the growing obsession with perfect sleep may lead to anxiety, further complicating the problem. Dr. Biradar reminds us, “The more anxious you are about falling asleep, the harder it will be to actually fall asleep.”