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What is the ‘SleepMaxxing’ Trend and Why It’s Actually Making You Sleep Worse

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Nicholas Vincent is a passionate environmentalist and freelance writer. He is deeply committed to promoting... Read More

For many, the pursuit of “perfect” sleep or sleepmaxxing—maximizing sleep quality through various tools and techniques—might be counterproductive. Adam Kemp, a former professional basketball player turned fitness consultant, discovered this through his own experiences after employing various sleep aids like melatonin, meditation, and noise machines. Instead of enhancing his sleep, these strategies added pressure and made it even harder for him to find rest.

Source: CBS News/YouTube

Experts echo Kemp’s findings, suggesting that overthinking sleep strategies can inhibit the natural sleep process. “Sleep is about giving up control,” explains Rafael Pelayo, a clinical professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University’s Sleep Medicine division. Trying too hard to sleep can paradoxically keep you awake, turning rest into a stressful pursuit.

Recent studies Support the notion that striving for perfect sleep can be problematic. A German study revealed that perfectionistic tendencies such as self-doubt and an overemphasis on mistakes lead to difficulties in falling asleep and reduced sleep quality. Similarly, research from the University of Melbourne showed that perfectionists are more likely to suffer from poor sleep and might even develop chronic insomnia if they strictly follow conventional sleep advice.

Pelayo and other sleep specialists argue that the idea of “ideal sleep”—an uninterrupted, deep slumber—is a myth. Normal sleep involves waking up several times a night, which is a natural protective mechanism. Attempting to engineer a flawless sleep pattern can ignore the body’s natural rhythms and needs.

Furthermore, using sleep aids indiscriminately can be risky. The National Council on Aging notes that while melatonin is popular, its side effects are not well-understood, and many users exceed recommended dosages. Similarly, relying heavily on sleep trackers can lead to orthosomnia—an obsessive concern with achieving perfect sleep metrics that can actually exacerbate sleep issues.

Instead of focusing on perfect sleep, experts recommend establishing a regular sleep routine and creating a bedtime environment conducive to natural sleep. This includes going to bed and waking up at consistent times, minimizing exposure to stimulants like alcohol and caffeine, and ensuring a dark, quiet, and comfortable bedroom setting.

Ultimately, Kemp has adjusted his approach, focusing on relaxation without rigid rules, and incorporating gentle, pre-sleep routines that help him unwind physically and mentally. This shift from chasing ideal sleep to fostering a restful environment suggests a more effective and less stressful path to good sleep health.