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Sleeping well is fundamental to physical, mental and emotional health. However, behaviors and beliefs rooted in popular culture or influenced by incorrect information often unintentionally compromise the quality of rest.

We believe that excellent sleep begins with sound knowledge. That's why we've put together the most common myths about sleep and explained, based on scientific evidence, what really promotes a peaceful, restorative night.

What does it mean, after all, to have a restful sleep?

Sleeping well isn't just about falling asleep quickly or keeping to a set number of hours. Restorative sleep is sleep that allows the body and mind to go through all the stages of the sleep cycle - including deep sleep and REM sleep - without frequent interruptions. When we get continuous, quality rest, we wake up feeling energized, in a good mood and with greater mental clarity. The depth and consistency of sleep matters more than the duration.

Sleep: between truths and myths

Sleep is a vital necessity, responsible for physical regeneration, emotional balance and cognitive functioning. Yet, despite its unquestionable importance, incorrect ideas persist about what it means to sleep well in practice. Many of these beliefs, transmitted culturally or shaped by contemporary habits, lead to behaviors that, instead of promoting rest, silently compromise it.

Do I need to sleep 7 or 8 hours a night?

Myth: Although the recommended average is around 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, the ideal number varies according to each individual's biology and lifestyle. Some people feel perfectly restored with 6 hours of rest, while others need 9 or more. The essential thing is to ensure continuous, deep and truly restorative sleep.

Is snoring normal and harmless?

Not necessarily. Snoring can be a sign of obstructions in the airways - such as sleep apnea - and should not be considered an irrelevant phenomenon. In these cases, choosing a mattress that favors a correct body position, with morphological support, can help improve breathing during sleep.

Does drinking alcohol before bed help you fall asleep?

Myth: Although alcohol can induce initial drowsiness, it negatively interferes with the architecture of sleep, particularly the deeper, restorative phases. So although you may fall asleep more quickly, your sleep is likely to be fragmented, resulting in a feeling of tiredness the next day.

Watching TV before bed encourages relaxation

On the contrary. Exposure to blue light from electronic screens inhibits the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating the circadian rhythm. This interference compromises not only the time it takes to fall asleep, but also the depth of sleep. Opting for quieter activities, such as reading or meditation, will always be more beneficial.

Does staying in bed without sleep help you fall asleep?

False. Lying awake and restless can generate frustration and anxiety, negatively associating the resting space with insomnia.

The recommendation is simple: only go to bed when you feel sleepy. If you wake up in the middle of the night and can't get back to sleep, get up, keep a soft light on and engage in a relaxing activity until sleep returns naturally.

The "snooze" button allows you to sleep for a few more minutes in a restorative way

Common misconception. The extra minutes gained bysnoozing do not represent deep or restorative sleep. On the contrary, they fragment the sleep cycle and can cause greater fatigue when you wake up. If you feel the constant need to snooze your alarm, this may indicate an insufficient or non-restorative sleep routine. Evaluate your habits and make sure your mattress provides you with the right support and comfort.

Does exercising at night affect your sleep?

Truth and myth. It depends on the intensity of the activity and the interval between the end of the exercise and bedtime.

High-intensity activities close to bedtime can make it difficult to relax. However, gentle exercises such as yoga or stretching can have a positive effect on falling asleep. Ideally, any workout should be completed at least three hours before your usual bedtime.

Does getting more sleep at the weekend make up for bad nights?

No. The accumulation of sleep deficit throughout the week is not fully compensated for by extended periods of sleep at weekends.

In addition, drastically altering bedtimes and wake-up times compromises the circadian rhythm, which is essential for good sleep regulation. It's best to stick to a consistent routine throughout the week, including Saturdays and Sundays.

Should a mattress only be replaced when it is visibly deformed?

Myth: A mattress can appear visually intact and yet have lost its effectiveness in supporting the body.

Progressive wear and tear affects postural alignment and sleep quality, even if it is not immediately noticeable. The average lifespan of a mattress is between 8 and 10 years, and it's essential to check for signs such as morning pain or a sinking feeling.

At Leafsleep, you'll find mattresses designed to preserve comfort and ergonomics throughout their lifespan.

Remembering dreams is a sign of rest

Myth: Although it may seem like a positive indicator, frequently remembering dreams can reveal a fragmentation of sleep.

Restful sleep doesn't usually leave vivid memories of dreams. In many cases, these memories emerge following brief awakenings. Continuous, deep rest tends not to be interrupted by dream memories.

Understanding the real needs of sleep and identifying the myths that compromise it is fundamental to guaranteeing truly restorative nights of rest. By adopting healthy habits and investing in a mattress that suits your body, you'll be taking care of your health, your energy and your quality of life.

At Leafsleep, we combine technology, comfort and design to give you the best rest. Discover our range of mattresses designed to support your body rigorously and transform your nights.