excerpt from CNN
Going on vacation may seem like an unconventional way of trying to improve your sleeping habits.
But sleep tourism has been growing in popularity for several years, with an increasing number of sleep-focused stays appearing at hotels and resorts around the world.
Interest has skyrocketed since the pandemic, with a number of high-profile establishments turning their attention to sleep-deprived sufferers.
Over the past 12 months, Park Hyatt New York has launched the Bryte Restorative Sleep Suite, a 900-square-foot suite packed with sleep-enhancing amenities, while Rosewood Hotels & Resorts recently launched a collection of retreats called Alchemy of Sleep, which are designed to “promote rest”.
Zedwell, London’s first sleep-focused hotel, featuring rooms equipped with innovative soundproofing, opened its doors in early 2020, and Swedish bed manufacturer Hastens established the world’s first Hästens Sleep Spa Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel. 15 rooms, in the Portuguese city of Coimbra a year later.
So why has sleep suddenly become such an important focus for the travel industry?
Dr. Rebecca Robbins, sleep researcher and co-author of the book “Sleep for Success!” she believes this change has been a long time coming, particularly when it comes to hotels.
“When it comes down to it, travelers book hotels as a place to sleep,” he tells CNN Travel, before noting that the hotel industry has mostly focused on things that really take away from sleep in the past.
“People often associate travel with decadent eating, extending your bed hours, attractions and things you do while traveling, really almost at the cost of sleep,” he adds.
“Now, I think there’s been a big seismic shift in our collective consciousness and prioritization on wellness and wellness.”
The global pandemic seems to have played a huge role in this. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that 40% of more than 2,500 adults who participated reported a reduction in sleep quality since the start of the pandemic.
“There has been an increased focus on sleep in the age of Covid-19, and probably because so many people have struggled with it [sleep]says Dr. Robbins.
Prioritizing sleep
Hypnotherapist, meditation coach and holistic practitioner Malminder Gill has also noticed a change in attitudes towards sleep.
“Everything seems to be moving towards longevity, and I think that’s really pushed things forward,” Gill tells CNN Travel.
“Because it’s no big surprise that sleep is such an important aspect of our lives. Lack of sleep can cause a lot of different problems in your body and for your mental health.
“So, anxiety, depression, low mood, mood swings, all sorts of things, plus tiredness.”
Gill has partnered with Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel in London, to create a special service for guests with sleep problems called Sleep Concierge.
Service includes a sleep-inducing meditation recording, a pillow menu with options to suit guests who prefer to sleep on their backs or sides, the option of a weighted blanket, a bedtime tea specifically developed for service and a scented pillow. fog.
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