Debunking 5 Sleep-Related Myths

Sleep myths are like a game of Chinese Whispers–distorted and exaggerated as they get passed from one person to the next. We have become so immersed in this brain rot culture that we are willing to believe almost anything without questioning it.

But sleep myths aren’t a Gen Z creation – they have been around for centuries. Take the long-standing belief that sleeping on a firm bed is the key to good sleep – a notion rooted more in tradition than science. What Gen Z has done, however, is reclaim the narrative through sleepmaxxing – an umbrella term for activities, products, and “hacks” that ensure longer and better sleep.

Yet, even with this newfound focus on sleep, misinformation still spreads like wildfire. That is why Zie’s here – to cut through the noise and debunk some of the most common sleep myths once and for all.

1. A Warm Bedroom Temperature Is Best For Sleeping

Nope. You do not want to sweat all night and wake up in utter distress and discomfort. Your body temperature naturally drops when you sleep, so a cooler room actually helps signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down. We don’t want you coming home after a long day of work only to toss and turn all night because the room is too hot. The ideal bedroom temperature is around 60–67°F (that’s 15–19°C ) or you can choose a mattress topper that keeps you cool all night.

Also read – Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Mattress

2. How Long You Sleep Is All That Matters

Wait – do not come at me just yet. Yes, 8 hours of sleep is very, very important — but it’s not just about the number; it’s about the quality. You could sleep for 10 hours and still feel like a zombie if you’re not getting enough deep sleep and REM sleep. These stages are when your brain processes information, repairs tissues, and consolidates memories. You need the hours – but you also need to make sure you’re cycling through all the right sleep stages. Quality over quantity, always.

3. You Can Survive On Less Than 5 Hours Of Sleep

Sure, you can survive — but, we do not want you running on fumes. People love to brag about functioning on 4 hours of sleep or being a “nyctophile”. Trust me – it’s not. Chronic sleep deprivation affects everything from your mood to your metabolism to your immune system. Studies (source) show that adults need at least 7–9 hours of sleep to function properly. Anything less, and you’re setting yourself up for brain fog, poor decision-making, and slower reaction times. So, pick up that cute satin eye mask, cover your eyes, pull up your blanket, and go to sleep!

Also read – A Science-Backed Ideal Daily Routine For A Productive Day

4. Watching Tv Is A Good Way To Relax Before Bed

Yeah… no. Binge-watching Bridgerton at 11 PM might feel like self-care, but your brain disagrees. The blue light from your screens messes with melatonin production (the sleep hormone). This means your brain stays wired even after you’ve turned off the screen. You need that screen detox. And yes, that means putting your phone down too. Tough love, I know.

5. You Can “Catch Up” On Sleep Over The Weekend

Did you just try to gaslight your sleep? Hate to break it to you, but sleeping in until noon on Saturday doesn’t make up for the loss of sleep during the week. Sleep debt is very real – and it’s not something you can just “pay off” with a weekend sleep binge. Oversleeping can actually throw off your body’s internal clock, making it even harder to fall asleep on Sunday night. So, don’t cheat on your sleep –that is the relationship you truly need to work on.

World Sleep Day 2025 is all about making sleep health a priority. But good sleep is not just about getting enough hours – it is about understanding it. Wow, that almost sounds romantic, right? Jokes aside, being informed about sleep helps you make the right choices – and that’s all Zie wants – for you to sleep guilt-free.