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TikTok is obsessed with ‘sleep maxing’ – here’s how to do it

TikTok is obsessed with ‘sleep maxing’ – here’s how to do it

Doctor’s appointment! Give your eight hours.

Of course, sleeping through the night isn’t always that easy. According to Gallup According to a survey released earlier this year, only a quarter of Americans achieve the recommended eight hours of rest per day.

Groggy Gen Z doesn’t have that. More recently, sleep-deprived Zoomers have taken to social media to shed light on the sleep epidemic, find solutions, and share their relaxation habits – something like “Get ready with me” to get into the sheets.

The new direction is called “sleepmaxing” and it has already racked up hundreds of thousands of posts on TikTok. Content creators are sharing their favorite tips and tricks, and nothing is off limits.

CONNECTED: I’m a sleep expert – this is the time you should go to bed for optimal rest.

Some wellness lovers came to the point that they recommended acupuncture mats help relax muscles and blue sunglasses to reduce eye strain. Others are urging screen-obsessed young people to swap their phones for Kindles at night.

Even neuroscientist went viral after raving moon juiceor what she calls “night candy,” a berry-flavored supplement that combines magnesium and L-theanine. According to TikToker, this combination enhances alpha waves in the brain and promotes a “state of flow” and a “feeling of calm.”

Obviously, there’s no shortage of things to try if you’re having trouble sleeping.

But for those more skeptical about swallowing a handful supplements or tape their mouths shut Damn, we found recommendations from a real sleep expert.

Dr. Jessica Cho is a licensed physician and self-proclaimed “Sleep Doctor” with over 60,000 followers on TikTok. Working as a traveling hospitalist, she also reveals all her secrets to get a good night’s sleep.

In one of his popular postsCho lays out the ultimate guide for sleep seekers, whether you’re looking to improve your circadian rhythm or keep your partner from tossing and turning all night long.

Her packing list isn’t that strange. In fact, you’ve probably already heard of most of them. Many of them are based on science; like weighted blankets that can reduce anxietyand blackout curtains that are shown decrease destructive effects of light.

Below, you’ll find Dr. Cho’s complete gift guide to getting a good night’s sleep before the holidays, and be sure to check out Post Wanted’s top team. sleep choosestoo much.


Woman lying in a blanket
Amazon

According to Cho, a weighted blanket is a great addition to your gear.

“There’s actually good evidence that they help you sleep,” she suggested.

A National Library of Medicine A study conducted in Sweden found that weighted blankets can effectively improve sleep quality and relieve symptoms in patients with sleep disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorders.

CONNECTED: We’ve Tried the 6 Best Weighted Blankets—How to Find the Perfect One for You



Window with curtains and a plant in front of it
Amazon

Next on Cho’s list is an item that doubles as great home decor.

“Blackout curtains,” she emphasized. “Especially if you work shifts.”

Some people who work night shifts need to train their bodies to sleep at different times of the day. One way to do this is by using blackout curtains, which reduce light exposure and therefore allow the body to produce melatonin, which regulates the natural sleep-wake cycle.

But blackout curtains aren’t just for shift workers. 2023 study published Oxford Academic found that exposure to light at night is associated with obesity, diabetes and hypertension.



Woman sleeping on the bed
Amazon

Proper head support is critical for spinal alignment and sleep quality.

Cho recommends either gel pillows or cooling pads for deep sleep, as well as pillows designed specifically for people with special medical needs.

“If your loved one has a CPAP system and hates sleeping on their back, there is pillows this will help with that,” she also explained.

Research in National Library of Medicine suggests that a pillow of an appropriate height can provide adequate support to the head and neck, reduce stress on the cervical spine, and relax the neck and shoulder muscles.

CONNECTED: We’ve tested the best bed pillows – buy these 7 for a good night’s sleep



Woman talking on the phone
Amazon

Maintaining a good mood is important for sleep, and there are several ways to improve it. If going outside in the sunlight is not an option this winter, you can try light therapy.

“These lamps, which are at least 10,000 lux, are good for seasonal depression, jet lag, etc.,” Cho shared.

She recommends exposure for about 30 minutes in the morning.

Research published National Institute of Health found that patients with seasonal affective disorder who received bright light therapy for four weeks achieved remission of symptoms.



Woman hugging a pillow
bliss

The last item on Cho’s list stands out a bit, but is still a great gift for the person obsessed with the beauty of their vacation.

“Silk pillowcases,” she said. “Good for your skin and hair. Plus, they just feel good.”

While there isn’t much research to show that silk pillowcases have a direct impact on sleep quality, the material has been shown to have thermoregulatory properties that can prevent overheating and help sleepers feel comfortable.

CONNECTED: Silk pillowcases are a game changer for your skin and hair. Shop the 9 best we’ve tried.



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