Hunkering down like a suffocated baked potato great night’s sleep.
A TikTok trend called the “potato bed” has gone viral as a comfortable way to cuddle up by rearranging sheets and pillows.
The first step is to unfold the fitted bed sheet inside out and stuff a thick sheet around it. pillow and blanket.
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Once you have a solid foundation with fluffy walls, fill the center of the nest with blankets, comforters, and other comfort items. A laptop to play movies or a good book is recommended.
TikTok creators are trying out this trend themselves. “Best night’s sleep ever,” a user named Alice (@alicekateea) wrote in the caption of her video.
“So only adult-sized baby nests?” one user commented. “No wonder I slept so well!”
Another user wrote: “I’m already a couch potato, but now I’m going to be a bed potato too.”
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. William Lu, medical director of Dream Health, commented that potato beds are a “fun and cozy interpretation” of the concept of “cocooning,” or creating a nest-like sleep environment.
“I’m not surprised it’s widespread,” said the California-based expert. “People are looking for comfort, tranquility and a sense of security right now, and Potato Bed meets exactly that need. While it may seem playful, it’s actually meant to recreate the feeling of comfort and safety that we associate with it.” deep rest. ”
Sleep experts say the feeling of being “gently wrapped in a pillow and blanket” can mimic the effect of a weighted blanket or being hugged.
“That light, even that pressure helps. Decrease in stress hormones “It’s like cortisol, while increasing serotonin and oxytocin, which are chemicals that make you feel relaxed and sleepy,” Lu said.
“When your body feels safe and your mind feels safe, it’s easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.”
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Lu warned that the best sleep occurs when your core body temperature drops slightly, so being too warm can disrupt your sleep. She points out that wearing too many layers can “trap heat” and make it harder for your body to cool down.
“Also, tucking into soft pillows can disrupt the proper alignment of your spine,” Lu added. “Over time, it becomes a problem in the neck and back pain. If you wake up feeling sore or sweaty in the morning, that’s a sign to cut back. ”
Lu recommended thinking of the potato bed as a “cozy relaxation ritual” rather than a permanent sleep preparation.
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The best option, he says, is to make a bed of potatoes for short naps, winding down before bed, or a warm rest during the colder months.
Sleep experts also suggested using one lightweight duvet and fewer layers to ensure your mattress and primary pillow provide enough support.
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“The goal is not to get buried in fluff, but to create a comfortable, calming space that helps your body and mind relax before bed,” he said.
