SlumberVibe

sleep-trends

All posts tagged sleep-trends by SlumberVibe
  • Posted on

    Ever heard of mouth taping for better sleep? It’s the latest buzz stirring the sleep world, promising deeper, uninterrupted slumber by encouraging nasal breathing. As surprisingly simple as it sounds, the practice has sparked both enthusiasm among sleep enthusiasts and caution from medical experts. So, is mouth taping a game-changer for your nights or a potential health hazard? Let’s dive into this intriguing trend and uncover the truth.

    What Is Mouth Taping, and Why Is Everyone Talking About It?

    Mouth taping involves placing a small piece of tape over your lips during sleep to keep your mouth closed. Advocates claim it promotes nasal breathing, which can improve oxygen intake, reduce snoring, and enhance sleep quality. You might be wondering: if it sounds so natural, why the controversy?

    The Promise: Better Sleep Through Nasal Breathing

    Nasal breathing is widely recognized for its benefits. It filters, humidifies, and warms air, and it also helps regulate blood pressure and heart rate. Mouth taping aims to reinforce this natural process during sleep, combating mouth breathing—often linked to dry mouth, snoring, and restless nights.

    The Reality Check: Why Experts Advise Caution

    A recent article by the New York Post highlighted that despite some people's enthusiasm, mouth taping isn't suitable for everyone. Link to article

    Doctors warn that mouth taping may pose risks for individuals with respiratory issues, sleep apnea, or nasal congestion. For these people, taping the mouth shut could restrict airflow and exacerbate health conditions. The takeaway? Not all sleep hacks are one-size-fits-all.

    So, What If Mouth Taping Isn’t the Right Fix for You?

    If you or your partner struggle with snoring or restless sleep but aren’t comfortable trying mouth taping, there’s a safer, scientifically backed alternative worth exploring.

    Meet the Snorple Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece: A Personalized Solution

    Snorple offers a mouthpiece that’s designed to prevent snoring by gently repositioning your jaw and stabilizing your tongue, tackling the root causes of snoring rather than restricting your breathing.

    What makes it stand out?

    • Customizable Fit: Thanks to a boil-and-bite process (actually microwave-friendly!), you get a comfortable, personalized fit every night.
    • Adjustable Settings: You can control the degree of jaw advancement, fine-tuning comfort and effectiveness.
    • Hypoallergenic Materials: Made from latex-free materials to keep your mouth comfortable and safe.
    • Risk-Free Trial: With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it without worries.

    Thousands have found relief and better sleep through Snorple’s innovative approach, and the best part is it aligns with medical advice by ensuring breathing isn’t compromised.

    Why Your Sleep Health Matters More Than Quick Fixes

    Sleep trends come and go, but your health is forever. Trends like mouth taping remind us to think critically about what we try. The best sleep solutions honor your body’s needs and come with expert approval or solid scientific backing.

    So, What’s Next?

    If restless nights and snoring have been holding you back, consider approaches that marry innovation with safety. You can explore more about effective anti-snoring devices and why personalized solutions like Snorple’s mouthpiece might just change your sleep game.

    Final Thoughts

    The pursuit of restorative sleep is a journey. Trends like mouth taping shine a light on the importance of nasal breathing, but safety should never be compromised. Whether you choose to experiment with new habits or invest in trusted solutions, remember: your best sleep is the one that leaves you feeling refreshed, energized, and healthy.

    What sleep hacks have worked for you? Have you tried mouth taping or anti-snoring devices? Share your experience below—we’re all in this quest for better rest together!

  • Posted on

    Did you know that the global sleep apnea devices market is skyrocketing, expected to hit a staggering $9.3 billion by 2029? It's a fact revealed by a recent MarketsandMarkets™ report, and honestly, it's got me thinking about how much our society is waking up to the importance of restful sleep (pun absolutely intended). But what’s driving this surge, and more importantly, how does it affect you and your nightly battle against snoring or sleep apnea?

    Let’s dive into this fascinating trend and uncover some game-changing insights — plus, I’ll share a little secret about a customizable solution that’s been making waves.

    What’s Fueling This Sleep Tech Explosion?

    The report from MarketsandMarkets™ highlights an impressive growth trajectory, with the market already sitting at $6.5 billion in 2024 and expected to grow at a steady 7.3% CAGR through 2029. That’s not just a blip — this is a full-on movement.

    Why? There are several reasons:

    • Increased Awareness: More people are recognizing the dangers of untreated sleep apnea—from health risks like heart disease to sheer daytime exhaustion.
    • Innovation in Devices: Gone are the clunky, uncomfortable contraptions. Today’s sleep apnea and anti-snoring devices are sleeker, customizable, and, frankly, user-friendly.
    • A Growing Market: With an aging population and rising obesity rates, more individuals are seeking out solutions.

    So What’s the Big Deal with These Devices?

    If you or someone you love struggles with snoring or sleep apnea, you know how disruptive it can be—not just for sleep quality, but for relationships and overall wellbeing.

    Traditional CPAP machines have been the gold standard, but let’s be honest, they’re not always the most accessible or comfortable option. That’s where mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue stabilizing devices (TSDs) have stepped in, offering a less intrusive alternative.

    Now imagine a device that combines the best of both worlds. That’s precisely what the Snorple Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece promises.

    Why Snorple Stands Out

    I stumbled upon Snorple while researching solutions for snoring, and what caught my eye was their customizable mouthpiece. Unlike one-size-fits-all devices, Snorple’s boil-and-bite process ensures a perfect fit tailored to your unique mouth shape. Plus, it’s made from hypoallergenic, latex-free materials — a big win for sensitive users.

    What’s also cool? You can adjust the degree of jaw advancement to find your sweet spot, balancing comfort with effectiveness.

    And here’s a fun fact: while traditional mouthpieces often require boiling water for molding, Snorple’s device can be prepared using a microwave, making customization even easier.

    But Does It Really Work?

    According to both user feedback and independent reviews, many people have found relief and better sleep with Snorple's mouthpiece. Over 100,000 customers have given it a go, and with a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s a low-risk gamble for something as precious as your sleep.

    What’s Next for Sleep Solutions?

    With technological advances and growing public awareness, sleep apnea devices aren’t just medical tools anymore—they’re becoming integral to wellness lifestyles worldwide.

    If you’re curious about how these advancements could improve your nights, you might want to explore the latest options. To get a real feel for what’s out there, check out this resource on Snorple’s customizable anti-snoring mouthpiece. It’s always empowering to take control of your sleep health with tools designed for real comfort and real results.

    Before You Go...

    If you think snoring or sleep apnea is “just a part of life,” think again. The market growth is a sign that more of us are prioritizing good sleep, and there are better solutions than ever before.

    So, what do you think? Have you tried any sleep apnea or anti-snoring devices? What was your experience? Or are you considering diving in now that these advancements are hitting the mainstream? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories.

    Sleep well, friends! Because when it comes to health, nothing beats a good night’s rest.


    References: - MarketsandMarkets™ Sleep Apnea Devices Market report: Read the full article here

  • Posted on

    Have you seen those viral videos about mouth taping for sleep? It’s been all over social media lately—people claiming it’s a miracle fix for restless nights and snoring. Sounds promising, right? But hold on, before you grab that tape tonight, there’s something you need to know.

    Recently, Canadian doctors uncovered some pretty serious concerns about this sleeping hack. Their study, highlighted in a Ladbible article, has raised red flags about the risks many of us might be overlooking.

    What Exactly is Mouth Taping?

    Mouth taping is exactly what it sounds like—people stick some adhesive tape over their lips before bed to keep their mouths shut during sleep. The idea is that it promotes nasal breathing, which is supposed to improve sleep quality and reduce snoring. The trend’s surge thanks to social media influencers has made it look like a simple, foolproof sleep hack.

    But Here’s the Catch: The Risks

    Doctors warn that this method can backfire badly. Taping your mouth shut might cause choking hazards if you have nasal congestion or sleep apnea. It can also lead to dry mouth, skin irritation, or worsen breathing problems overnight. Some experts even caution that it could cause more harm than good, especially without medical advice.

    If you’re like me, the last thing you want is to experiment with something that might jeopardize your sleep or health. It’s easy to get swept up in quick fixes, but our bodies deserve care and respect—especially during rest.

    So, What Are Safer Alternatives?

    If snoring or restless sleep is your struggle, you might wonder if there’s a gentler, medically sound solution out there. Here’s where innovative sleep tech steps in. For example, companies like Snorple offer customizable anti-snoring mouthpieces designed to help you breathe easier and reduce snoring without the risks of mouth taping.

    Their mouthpiece works by gently repositioning your jaw and stabilizing your tongue, combining the benefits of mandibular advancement devices and tongue stabilizing devices. Plus, it’s made from hypoallergenic materials and offers adjustable settings for a comfortable, personalized fit. Even better? You can prepare it easily in the microwave for quick customization—no stressful boiling required.

    Why Does This Matter?

    We all want to feel refreshed and energized each morning, but shortcuts that seem harmless might sabotage that goal. Using an unsafe hack like mouth taping could mean restless nights, interrupted breathing, or worse. Choosing a trusted, tested solution designed with safety in mind can drastically improve your sleep quality and overall health.

    What Can You Do Tonight?

    • Skip the tape: Avoid the temptation of trendy hacks without medical backing.
    • Try nasal strips or humidifiers: These can open up your airways naturally.
    • Consider anti-snoring devices: Products like the Snorple mouthpiece offer a safer, more comfortable way to tackle snoring.
    • See a sleep specialist: If snoring or breathing issues persist, professional advice is invaluable.

    The Bottom Line

    Mouth taping might look like a quick fix for better sleep, but the reality is far more complicated—and risky. Before you jump on the bandwagon, weigh the potential harm against the benefits and explore safer, scientifically supported alternatives. Our nights—and our health—are worth it.

    What’s your take on these sleep trends? Have you ever tried mouth taping, or maybe a device like Snorple’s? Share your experiences and thoughts below—let’s get the conversation started about safe, effective ways to catch those much-needed Zzzs!

    Sweet dreams, safely!

  • Posted on

    Have you ever wondered why some of the world's top tennis players are sporting nasal strips during their intense matches? It’s not just a quirky fashion statement or a random health fad. The phenomenon is catching on fast, and it has fascinating implications not only for athletes but also for millions of people struggling with snoring and sleep quality worldwide.

    Recently, at the French Open, Carlos Alcaraz, a four-time Grand Slam champion, was spotted wearing a nasal strip on the court. This simple strip of adhesive tape isn’t new in the sports scene, but its growing popularity among tennis pros has sparked curiosity and interest far beyond the sports world. According to an insightful NBC News article Tennis players wonder if nasal strips aren't just for snoring anymore, these strips are helping athletes breathe easier and recover faster during grueling matches. But what does this mean for the rest of us?

    The Science Behind Nasal Strips and Better Breathing

    Nasal strips work by gently lifting the sides of the nose to widen nasal passages. This increases airflow, reduces nasal resistance, and improves oxygen intake. For athletes, this means better endurance and less fatigue. But these same benefits translate directly to improving sleep quality for people who snore or have mild obstructive sleep apnea.

    Snoring is often caused by restricted airflow in the airway during sleep. When the airway narrows, vibrations produce the sound we recognize as snoring. By promoting easier nasal breathing, nasal strips can reduce this obstruction and help some individuals breathe more freely at night. However, nasal strips represent just one piece of the puzzle.

    Beyond Nasal Strips: Customized Solutions for Effective Snoring Relief

    While nasal strips can provide quick relief, many snorers need a more comprehensive approach. That’s where innovative devices like the Snorple Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece come in. Combining the benefits of mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue stabilizing devices (TSDs), Snorple offers a customizable solution that addresses snoring from multiple angles.

    Here’s why it stands out:

    • Dual Action: Snorple repositions the jaw while stabilizing the tongue, two primary culprits behind airway blockage during sleep.
    • Custom Fit: Using a boil-and-bite process (and uniquely, a microwave method for preparation), the mouthpiece molds perfectly to your mouth for maximum comfort.
    • Hypoallergenic Materials: It’s latex-free and safe for sensitive users.
    • Adjustability: You can modify the degree of jaw advancement to find your perfect comfort and effectiveness balance.

    This thoughtful design aligns perfectly with the growing demand for personalized sleep solutions, especially as traditional remedies often fall short.

    What Tennis Players and Snorers Have in Common

    At first glance, elite tennis players and snorers might seem like unrelated groups. But both face the challenge of optimizing airflow for better performance—whether that’s on the court or in a restful night’s sleep. The adoption of nasal strips by professional athletes underscores a universal truth: breath is life, and breathing well makes everything better.

    For snorers, enhancing nasal airflow is a crucial component of improving sleep quality. When coupled with devices like Snorple’s mouthpiece, it’s possible to tackle multiple causes of airway restriction at once, leading to drastically better rest. And considering Snorple’s track record—serving over 100,000 customers with high satisfaction—it’s clear many have found real relief.

    What Should You Take Away From This?

    • Nasal strips are gaining popularity beyond the sleep clinic, even in competitive sports, highlighting the importance of unobstructed breathing.
    • Simple interventions like nasal strips can be incredibly effective for certain types of snoring, but many cases require multi-faceted approaches.
    • Customized, adjustable anti-snoring devices like the Snorple mouthpiece represent the cutting edge of sleep technology, combining comfort, convenience, and effectiveness.

    Ready to Breathe Better Tonight?

    If you’ve tried nasal strips and still find yourself or a loved one snoring loudly or waking up tired, it might be time to explore more advanced options. The Snorple Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece is designed to offer a tailored fit and targeted support that goes beyond surface solutions.

    Remember, restful sleep isn’t just about comfort—it’s about health, energy, and quality of life. With innovations inspired by both athletes and sleep science, the future looks bright for better nights and brighter days.

    So, what’s your experience with nasal strips or anti-snoring devices? Are you ready to upgrade your sleep routine with smarter solutions? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear your story!

  • Posted on

    Have you ever wondered if there’s a simple trick to stop snoring and sleep like a baby? Recently, mouth taping has been making waves as a natural method touted by some for enhancing sleep quality. But is it as safe and effective as it sounds? Let’s dive into this intriguing trend and uncover what experts are really saying, plus explore smart, science-backed alternatives.

    Mouth Taping: The New Sleep Hack on the Block

    The idea is straightforward: by taping your mouth shut at night, you’re forced to breathe through your nose, which supposedly reduces snoring and improves oxygen intake during sleep. Some people swear by it, claiming they wake up feeling energized and refreshed.

    But before you rush to grab that roll of tape, here’s what you need to know. According to a recent article from the New York Post titled “Mouth taping touted by some for better sleep as experts cite safety concerns”, this practice, despite its potential benefits, isn’t for everyone. Medical professionals caution against it, highlighting risks especially for people with certain health conditions.

    What Are the Risks?

    • Safety Concerns: If you have sleep apnea, nasal congestion, or respiratory issues, mouth taping could block your airway, leading to dangerous breathing difficulties.
    • Skin Irritation: Sensitive skin can react poorly to adhesive tape, causing discomfort or even allergic reactions.
    • False Sense of Security: Taping might mask symptoms that require professional evaluation and treatment.

    Clearly, while mouth taping might seem like a simple fix, the risks underscore the importance of choosing safe and effective solutions tailored to your needs.

    So, What’s a Safer, More Effective Alternative?

    If snoring or disrupted sleep is your challenge, you’re not alone — and thankfully, there are innovative, customizable solutions grounded in science. One such breakthrough is the Snorple Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece.

    Here’s why it stands out:

    • Customizable Fit for Comfort and Effectiveness: Using a unique boil-and-bite customization (and even microwave preparation!), Snorple’s mouthpiece molds perfectly to your jaw, ensuring comfort all night long.
    • Combines Best of Both Worlds: It merges mandibular advancement and tongue stabilizing device features, gently repositioning your jaw and tongue to keep airways clear.
    • Hypoallergenic Materials: Made from latex-free, skin-friendly components, it minimizes irritation risks associated with adhesives.
    • Adjustable Jaw Advancement: Tailor the device settings to your comfort and effectiveness needs.
    • Trusted by Over 100,000 Customers: Real people have found relief and better sleep with Snorple’s solution.

    Why Prioritize Professional Solutions?

    When it comes to something as vital as sleep, taking shortcuts can backfire. Devices like Snorple’s mouthpiece are designed with safety and efficacy in mind, backed by feedback, scientific principles, and real-world success stories.

    Empower Your Nightly Ritual Starting Today

    Imagine waking up refreshed, energized, and ready to conquer the day — no grogginess, no waking up your loved ones with loud snoring. It’s possible with the right approach.

    If you’re intrigued by alternative snoring solutions and want to explore what’s available, check out the customizable options for anti-snoring mouthpieces that put you in control of your sleep quality.

    Before You Try Mouth Taping...

    • Consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have health conditions.
    • Consider safer, proven solutions that won’t risk your breathing or skin health.
    • Remember, your sleep is an investment in your overall well-being.

    Final Thoughts

    The quest for better sleep is universal, and trends like mouth taping remind us of the creativity people bring to tackling this challenge. But nothing beats informed choices grounded in science and safety.

    Have you tried mouth taping or other snoring remedies? What worked, and what didn’t? Drop your experiences below — your story might inspire someone else’s journey to restful nights.

    Sweet dreams, and here’s to waking up on the right side of the bed! 😴

  • Posted on

    Did you know that some of the most exciting ideas to improve our sleep might just be hiding in science fiction books? You might be wondering, what could futuristic stories have to do with getting a better night’s rest? More than you’d expect, especially with June 2025’s standout sci-fi releases shaking up how we think about sleep and kindness.

    Take, for example, Laura Elliott’s sleep-killing neural chip — a mind-bending concept explored in one of June’s hottest sci-fi picks (you can check out the full list here). This fictional device disrupts sleep, but it sparks a bigger question: how can science balance technology and rest without sacrificing the quality of our sleep?

    This is where real-world innovations start to shine. Unlike dystopian neural chips, companies like Snorple are making science fiction-inspired solutions a reality by focusing on restorative sleep. Snorple’s customizable anti-snoring mouthpiece, for instance, uses groundbreaking designs that blend mandibular advancement and tongue stabilization — concepts that almost feel futuristic but are here to help millions sleep better tonight.

    Imagine a device that’s as comfortable as it is effective, crafted from hypoallergenic materials and easily custom-molded with a simple microwave process. That’s the kind of innovation that turns sci-fi dreams into practical, everyday tools. Also, the adjustable settings mean it adapts to your unique needs — a personalized sleep guardian designed to keep disruptions like snoring at bay without the hassle of complex devices.

    Why is this exciting? Because snoring is more than just a nuisance; it breaks the restorative cycles of sleep that we desperately need to feel energized, focused, and kind — yes, kind! Interestingly, Will Carver’s sci-fi vision imagines a virus that makes people kinder, reminding us how rest and mental wellness are deeply intertwined. Better sleep, fewer interruptions, and innovations that respect your body could genuinely improve not only your nights but your days and your relationships.

    So, what does that mean for you? If you’ve ever felt frustrated by restless nights caused by snoring or discomfort with bulky sleep aids, it’s time to explore options inspired by the very imagination of science fiction. The key is embracing solutions that blend cutting-edge design with comfort and personalization — much like the incredible anti-snoring mouthpiece from Snorple, which has already helped over 100,000 customers reclaim their nights.

    Here’s how you can start embracing these sleep trends inspired by sci-fi innovation today:

    • Stay curious: Dive into science fiction books to spark ideas about how future tech might enhance your sleep.
    • Explore new tech: Look for sleep aids that offer customization and comfort instead of a one-size-fits-all approach.
    • Prioritize restorative rest: Remember, quality sleep is the foundation for kindness, productivity, and mental well-being.
    • Be open to innovation: Don’t be afraid to try devices that use novel approaches — like adjustable, hypoallergenic mouthpieces — proven to work.

    In this age of ever-evolving science and storytelling, sleep solutions are no longer stuck in the past. They’re inspired by imagination, supported by science, and designed for you. So why settle for restless nights when the future of restful sleep is already here?

    Before you go, what’s your take? Have you tried any innovative gadgets that changed your sleep game? Or has a sci-fi story ever made you rethink your nightly rituals? Share your thoughts below — because your best night’s sleep might just be a story away.

    Sweet dreams and inspired rest await!

  • Posted on

    Did you ever wonder why the snooze button on your alarm clock always gives you 9 minutes of extra sleep? It turns out, that oddly specific length is a relic of a bygone era. After 18 years, Apple is finally killing its 9-minute snooze function, a move that’s sparking conversations about how we sleep, wake, and recharge. You can read the original story here.

    So, why did the 9-minute snooze exist in the first place? The answer is both technical and historical. Alarm clocks originally used mechanical gears that made it difficult to set a snooze interval for exactly 10 minutes, so 9 minutes became the default. Fast forward to the digital age, and this quirk was preserved — mostly for familiarity and habit.

    But habits and traditions don’t always serve us well, especially when it comes to sleep. The 9-minute snooze might give you the illusion of more rest, but studies show fragmented sleep — waking up repeatedly or dozing off in short spurts — can actually leave you feeling groggier and less refreshed. This phenomenon is known as “sleep inertia,” the sluggish feeling many experience immediately after waking.

    Apple’s removal of the 9-minute snooze could be interpreted as a subtle nudge toward healthier sleep patterns, encouraging users to wake up once and fully, rather than postponing the inevitable rise multiple times. The big question is: Are we ready to rethink those few extra minutes of “fake” sleep?

    What Does Science Say About Snoozing?

    To understand the impact of Apple's move, we need to look at the research surrounding snoozing:

    • Sleep cycles last about 90 minutes. Interrupting a cycle or waking up during deep sleep stages can cause grogginess.
    • Short snooze periods may prevent the brain from transitioning into restorative REM or deep sleep stages again. This leads to poor sleep quality.
    • Consistent wake times correlate with better overall sleep health and mood regulation.

    So, hitting snooze repeatedly is less about gaining restful sleep and more about delaying the tough part: getting out of bed.

    The Bigger Trend: Tech Innovation Meets Sleep Hygiene

    Apple’s snooze decision fits into a larger zeitgeist where technology companies are acknowledging the science of sleep. With growing awareness of sleep disorders, sleep quality has become a tech frontier — everything from smart mattresses to personalized sleep trackers is aiming to optimize rest.

    This trend complements solutions developed by companies like Snorple, which combines technology with customization to tackle one of the biggest sleep disruptors: snoring. Snorple’s mouthpiece, for example, adjusts the jaw and tongue position to prevent airway obstruction, supporting uninterrupted sleep cycles. It’s made from hypoallergenic materials and tailored through an easy boil-and-bite process, making it comfortable and effective. This kind of innovation is critical because even if you wake up on time, poor breathing can sabotage your entire night’s rest.

    What Can You Do Right Now? Tips to Upgrade Your Wake-Up Game

    1. Skip the Snooze Button: Train yourself to get up with your first alarm. It’s tough but effective for improving morning alertness.
    2. Set Consistent Wake Times: Your body thrives on routine. Wake up at the same time every day to stabilize your circadian rhythm.
    3. Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Consider solutions that reduce disruptions — like Snorple’s customizable anti-snoring mouthpiece — to keep your airway clear and your sleep deep.
    4. Reevaluate Your Alarm Settings: Use alarms with soundscapes or gradual volume increases to wake up gently instead of abruptly.
    5. Reflect on Your Bedtime: The best wake-up routine starts with the right preparation. Prioritize sleep hygiene fundamentals like limiting screen time before bed and maintaining a dark, cool bedroom.

    Why This Matters in 2025

    With the rise of hybrid work, flexible schedules, and 24/7 connectivity, our sleep patterns are more disrupted than ever. The removal of the 9-minute snooze by a tech giant like Apple symbolizes a shift towards smarter, healthier sleep strategies.

    Sleep is not just about quantity but quality. Technology can either be an enemy or an ally. Embracing innovations like Snorple’s mouthpiece alongside behavioral changes can help combat common sleep disorders and improve your overall rest.

    Final Thoughts

    The end of the 9-minute snooze is more than a quirky tech update — it’s a wake-up call about how we manage our sleep. Are you still clinging to those extra snooze minutes, or are you ready to take control of your wake-up routine and improve your sleep health?

    If you’re curious about practical tools to tackle sleep interruptions, consider exploring customizable solutions like Snorple’s anti-snoring mouthpiece, which has helped over 100,000 customers achieve quieter, deeper sleep.

    What’s your take on the snooze button fad ending? Could this spark a better morning for you? Drop your thoughts below and let’s start a conversation about modern sleep habits!