Sleep optimization has never been trendier. Millions are seeking professional services and products to increase their sleep quality. Whether it's through wearable sleep tech, holistic sleep aids or sleep spa programming, consumers are doing everything they can to improve their rest, which has lead to the newest viral trend of "sleepmaxxing."
The term was coined over several social media platforms, with consumers becoming obsessed with their sleep health and hygiene. We spoke with Kane Sarhan, co-founder of THE WELL for further insight.
"Sleepmaxxing is a growing trend of prioritizing and optimizing sleep as a cornerstone of health. This movement emphasizes the use of high-tech gadgets, curated environments, and tailored routines to enhance sleep quality, recognizing its vital role in mental clarity, immune function and overall longevity," said Sarhan.
Some of the practices that those interested in sleepmaxxing are flocking to include taking supplements like melatonin, wearing sleep-tracking devices like the recently booming Oura Ring to track sleep quality, sleeping under weighted blankets, utilizing white noise, meditation or sound machines, the practice of mouth-tapping and more.
Another interest that has grown largely in popularity is consumers and wellness enthusiasts turning to spas and resorts to get professional advice and programming for boosting sleep health. This means that spa pros have a chance to capitalize on sleepmaxxing by adding rest to their spa menu.
Related: 4 Trends in Sleep Aids that Holistically Boost Sleep Health
Whether it's a hotel staycation that provides in-room sleep aids, or a sleep-inducing massage, spas are creating innovative services that help their guests rest and recharge. Sarhan shared what THE WELL has added to their programming to draw in guests interesting in increasing their sleep.
"THE WELL Bay Harbor Islands offers a range of thoughtfully designed features and amenities to promote restorative sleep," said Sarhan. "Residences are equipped with aromatherapy diffusers, filling the air with calming scents vetted by wellness practitioners, and therapeutic soaking tubs to soothe muscles and relax the mind."
He also mentioned the destination's red light therapy panels that are built into closets that provide stress-relief benefits, and dedicated meditation nooks that offer spaces for mindfulness and yoga practices before bed. "The tranquil design elements, including dimmable lighting, neutral wood flooring, and sun-inspired interiors, align with natural circadian rhythms, fostering an ideal sleep environment," Sarhan noted. "A skin care fridge in the primary bathroom encourages soothing bedtime routines, while holistic guidance from THE WELL’s health coaching sessions helps residents establish personalized sleep-enhancing habits."
These simple additions to any spa's services or resort's in-room offerings will be sure to draw in guests of all ages and demographics who want to maximize their sleep. We also spoke with Brittany Hunt, mental health and addictions clinician at Clinic Les Alpes. She provided her professional recommendations for sleepmaxxing including:
- Pre-sleep Cognitive Dump: Write down worries or tasks for the next day to clear the mind before sleep.
- Aromatherapy Integration: Utilize calming scents like lavender or chamomile in the bedroom to promote relaxation and signal to the body that it's time to wind down.
- Tech Tint Adjustment: Besides limiting screen time, adjust the color temperature of your devices to emit less blue light or use apps that overlay a calming tint in the evenings.
- Binaural Beats: Use audio tracks designed with binaural beats to encourage deep relaxation and sleep. These sounds help to synchronize brainwaves to a frequency conducive to sleep.
- Weighted Blanket Trial: Experiment with a weighted blanket to provide deep touch pressure that can reduce anxiety and increase feelings of security, enhancing sleep quality.
Sleep optimization, hygiene and health are on the minds of many, and this interest is not going anywhere soon. The need for quality sleep will always be apparent, so now's the perfect time for spa and wellness pros to make sure their offerings match this interest. Take the opportunity to be the sounding voice in quality sleep, and help your guests revolutionize their rest.
