As we look ahead to 2025, Sleep Cycle has identified several sleep trends that are expected to gain traction as a result of ongoing societal challenges, including economic stress, health concerns, and lifestyle disruptions.Â
Below are the top predictions made by Michael Gradisar, PhD, head of sleep science at Sleep Cycle, for the year ahead, with insights into what these trends are and why they are emerging.
1. Sleep Reversing
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What it is:
In Sleep Cycle’s report, Gradisar describes sleep reversing as “a counterintuitive technique from the 1970s” that involves lying in bed in the dark and consciously trying to stay awake. This method is based on the psychological principle known as paradoxical intention, where attempting to stay awake reduces the performance anxiety associated with trying to fall asleep.
Why it’s emerging:
Gradisar predicts that sleep reversing will see a resurgence in 2025. He points out in the report that the technique is scientifically backed and has been shown to help combat sleep-onset insomnia. “This technique is gaining attention for its simplicity and evidence-based roots, making it an intriguing option for people struggling to fall asleep despite their best efforts,” Gradisar says in the report.
2. Sleep Caves
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What it is:
The sleep cave trend focuses on creating a bedroom environment that mimics pre-modern sleeping conditions. This involves blocking light and removing windows to ensure total darkness, which can support melatonin production to promote better sleep.
Why it’s emerging:
Gradisar notes in the report that there is a “growing fascination” with returning to “caveman living” and embracing sleep environments that align more closely with our biological sleep rhythms. He says in the report, “While this trend is unconventional, it reflects a desire to strip away modern distractions and optimize sleep naturally.”
3. Financial Insomnia
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What it is:
Financial insomnia refers to the sleep disruptions caused by anxiety and stress over personal finances. Growing economic uncertainty has contributed to an increase in this form of insomnia, as financial concerns lead to heightened physiological and cognitive arousal, making it difficult for individuals to fall asleep.
Why it’s emerging:
As financial worries from 2024 continue to affect many people, Sleep Cycle predicts that this trend will intensify in 2025. Gradiar notes in the report, “Fortunately, scientifically backed treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) are becoming more accessible, offering proven strategies to manage insomnia caused by stress and anxiety.”Â
4. Coughing Insomnia
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What it is:
Coughing insomnia refers to sleep disruptions caused by persistent coughing, often linked to emerging illnesses and respiratory conditions. Sleep Cycle suggests that this trend could become more prominent as new health crises could emerge in the coming year.
Why it’s emerging:
Gradisar notes in the report that the World Health Organization has raised concerns about a reduction in global health investment and urged governments to prepare for potential new health crises. “If new, undiagnosed diseases continue to emerge in 2025, we may see coughing-related sleep disturbances on the rise,” Gradisar says in the report. Sleep Cycle’s Cough Radar feature, which tracks regional coughing trends, is designed to identify potential health risks early. Should a new wave of disease arise, Gradisar hopes that Sleep Cycle can use Cough Radar data to prepare users and work with governments to prevent sleep disturbances from coughing insomnia.
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