If you’re like most people, then you probably had more than a few restless nights in 2020. Between the pandemic, political and social unrest, and the daily stressors that affect us all, it’s no wonder that lots of people lost some sleep!
2021 might not be perfect, but it’s a chance to turn over a new leaf and look toward a more restful year. If you’re still looking for those elusive 8 hours, then it might be time to think about leaning on technology to help you. Here are the top 5 sleep gadgets to consider this year for a good night’s sleep—every single night.
How Sleep Data Has Improved Sleep Technology
It’s hard to evaluate your own sleep for obvious reasons. You can’t always figure out what’s keeping you awake and for how long because you’re asleep for part of the time! Fortunately, sleep researchers now have access to better technology and better sleep data.
With better access to sleep data, we’re seeing improvements in sleep technology as well. Now, you can improve your sleep and your health by using gadgets to find out more about your sleep duration and quality or to help you sleep better. There are dozens of great gadgets, but these are the 5 best this year.
1. A Watch That Detects Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that can be extremely damaging to one’s health, and even life-threatening. During sleep, sleep apnea makes the sufferer stop breathing momentarily, causing them to wake up many times a night. This severely disrupts normal sleep.
Unfortunately, many people go years with undiagnosed apnea because they don’t realize they’re waking up so many times a night. If you think you might be suffering from this sleep disorder, the Withings Scan Watch can help clear things up by monitoring your sleep cycles and detecting signs of sleep apnea. While it does not provide a definitive diagnosis, it can help people with sleep problems detect the cause and provides a “sleep score” for ongoing monitoring. These health data visuals can help you understand complex in an easy way.
2. The Oura Ring for Sleep Tracking
If you don’t like the idea of wearing a watch while you sleep, there’s always the Oura Ring. It’s a simple, comfortable band-style ring equipped with a small sensor. It tracks your body’s signals day and night and can help you improve your sleep.
Oura measures vital signs like resting heart rate and respiratory rate, as well as nighttime movement and sleep quality. Understanding your sleep quality can empower you to improve your overall health by adjusting your lifestyle for better sleep.
3. The Muse Headband
The options for wearables are always expanding, so you no longer have to settle for one particular style of sleep trackers. Many people are more comfortable wearing a headband than a watch for tracking activity and sleep. That’s where the Muse headband comes in.
The Muse tracks your brain activity, heart rate, and other signals to provide you with valuable health information whenever you need it. The headband can be used when you sleep, meditate, and exercise for a healthier, calmer, and more mindful life.
Red Night Light for Better Sleep
Worried about the effect of blue light from your smartphone on your sleep? Switch to a red night light like the Sleeprise Smart Sleep Light. Unlike the short wavelengths of blue light, the red light of the Sleeprise helps you to fall asleep more easily and wake up naturally. The light is also Bluetooth equipped so you can play soothing music!
The Sound Asleep Pillow
Now, even your pillow can help you sleep smarter! The Sound Asleep Pillow can play your favorite music and audiobooks to lull you to sleep. It’s also equipped with its own sleep tracker, can help you manage your snoring, and wake you when needed. Plus, it’s super comfortable!
Are There Any Concerns With Tech That Gathers Data While We Sleep?
These sleep gadgets can really help you understand your sleep and health. Depending on the state of your sleep, they could even be life-changing. But there is a common concern that still has no easy answers: privacy.
Tech that gathers data while you sleep has the potential to violate privacy, which is a tradeoff some people aren’t willing to make. You can minimize data risks by managing your settings, but ultimately, you need to be the one to decide: is a better night’s sleep worth any potential privacy risks?
2021 is a big year. It’s time to make the most of it by making sure you’re well-rested and ready to take on any challenges you might face.
