I swapped my £6 sleep mask for a £160 sleep mask – here’s what I learned – TechRadar

Discover the insights gained from upgrading a basic sleep mask to a high-tech smart sleep mask.

The Tech Upgrade for Your Sleep Routine

Are you someone who values their beauty sleep like it's a precious gem? Do you understand the struggle of finding the perfect eye mask to block out the world and slip into dreamland peacefully? Well, if you're nodding along, then you'll appreciate the journey I embarked on when I traded in my trusty £6 eye mask for the luxurious £160 Aura smart sleep mask. Let me take you through the eye-opening experience of this high-tech upgrade and what it taught me about the world of sleep masks.

The Basics Just Got Better

When it comes to eye masks, we usually expect them to perform two simple tasks: keep things dark and stay on our face throughout the night. My old eye mask did a decent job at these basic functions, but the Aura took it to a whole new level. The total darkness it provides is unmatched, making it feel like midnight even in the middle of the day. The secure fit of the Aura ensures it stays in place all night, unlike traditional elasticated masks that tend to slip off. Plus, the wide straps and anti-slip design make it comfortable to wear from the moment you put it on.

The Reader's Guide

A Bright Idea for Wake-Up Calls

One of the common struggles with traditional eye masks is dealing with complete darkness when you need a hint of light to wake up naturally. The Aura smartly solves this problem with its built-in LED light that gradually brightens before your alarm goes off. This gentle wake-up call mimics the sunrise, helping you ease into the day without being jolted awake by a blaring alarm. It's a thoughtful feature that adds a touch of sophistication to your morning routine.

Beware of Overheating

While the Aura excels in many areas, it does come with a downside for those prone to night sweats – it can make you feel warmer due to its bulkier design. If you're someone who struggles with overheating during the night, you might want to opt for a breathable silk mask instead. However, if you decide to stick with the Aura, be prepared for some sweaty mornings unless you have a cooling mattress to counteract the heat.

A Mindful Addition to Your Nighttime Ritual

Who would have thought that an eye mask could be more than just a light blocker? The Aura integrates seamlessly into your bedtime routine by offering wind-down meditations and white noise through its built-in speakers. This immersive experience helps transition your mind from a state of alertness to relaxation, making it easier to drift off to sleep. By preventing distractions like checking your phone under the mask, the Aura encourages a calm and stress-free environment for optimal rest.

The Quirks of High-Tech Convenience

While the Aura brings a host of benefits to your nightly routine, it does come with one pesky detail – charging. Unlike traditional eye masks that require no maintenance, the Aura needs regular charging to function at its best. Forgetting to charge it can lead to unexpected power cuts in the middle of the night, disrupting your sleep schedule. It's essential to develop a habit of charging both the mask and your phone for uninterrupted use.

In conclusion, upgrading your sleep mask to a smart device like the Aura can offer unique benefits and elevate your bedtime routine. While it may come at a higher price point, the added features such as wake-up lights and meditation options make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking enhanced sleep quality. However, if you're content with a basic eye mask for simple light blocking, sticking to your budget-friendly option may still provide satisfactory results without the need for constant charging. Ultimately, the choice between convenience and simplicity boils down to personal preference and sleep habits.

Saadat Qureshi

Hey, I'm Saadat Qureshi, your guide through the exciting worlds of education and technology. Originally from Karachi and a proud alum of the University of Birmingham, I'm now back in Karachi, Pakistan, exploring the intersection of learning and tech. Stick around for my fresh takes on the digital revolution! Connect With Me