Getting a good night’s sleep has become a trending topic on social media, with the phenomenon known as “sleepmaxxing” capturing the attention of young Americans.
Users are willing to try anything, from monitoring devices to unusual practices like “mouth taping,” which involves sleeping with tape sealing the mouth shut.
Experts agree that establishing specific habits can help. Dr. Rafael Pelayo from Stanford University in California highlights how Gen-Z is striving to improve the quality of their sleep, even though it’s already considered optimal. This generational group, as revealed by a recent analysis, dedicates more time to rest than others, pairing this focus with greater self-care and time spent on physical exercise.
However, not all of the U.S. is following these virtuous trends. A poll conducted by Gallup found that 57% of Americans feel they do not get enough sleep. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends between 7 and 8 hours of sleep, especially for teenagers, who rarely meet this goal.
Several scientifically validated options can also help, including the use of supplements like magnesium threonate, which relaxes the brain, or melatonin, beneficial for frequent travelers experiencing jet lag.
The trend is also bringing renewed attention to fundamental elements of good sleep hygiene. Simple routines such as turning off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bed, maintaining consistent sleep schedules, and following relaxing rituals can be highly effective.
Quality sleep is essential for overall health: it reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension, improves mood, and lowers stress levels.
