The Parallel team includes plenty of deep thinkers and former students. And as our extended families gear up for another school year, we’re reminded of one crucial ingredient for academic success that often gets neglected amidst the flurry of textbooks, extracurriculars, and social life: sleep.

We absolutely get it — between late-night study sessions and hanging out with classmates, it’s easy to let your sleep schedule slip. (It sort of happens automatically, right?)

But here’s the thing: skimping on sleep can seriously sabotage your brainpower and academic performance.

The Science of Sleep and Smarts

Countless studies have shown that getting enough high-quality sleep is essential for your health and cognitive function. When you sleep and your body is resting up, your brain is busily consolidating memories, processing information, and forging new neural connections. It’s that window of time when you finally recover from all that hard work, and hard play — and optimize for the next round.

On the flip side, sleep deprivation can lead to:

• Difficulty concentrating and paying attention in class
• Impaired memory and trouble retaining new information
• Slower reaction times and reduced creativity
• Increased stress, anxiety, and mood swings

Not exactly a recipe for straight A’s, right?

Hacking Your Sleep for Academic Success

So, how can you make sure you’re getting the quality Zzzs your student brain craves? Here are some tips:

1. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.

Try to go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time every day, even on weekends. (We know, good luck with that.) Your body loves routine!

2. Create a sleep-friendly environment.

Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool. Invest in a comfy mattress and pillow (like the amazing Parallel Adjustable Pillow!). Make your space a sleep sanctuary.

3. Wind down before bed.

Put away the screens at least an hour before bedtime. Read a book, take a warm bath, or do some gentle stretching to signal to your body that it’s officially time to relax.

4. Prioritize sleep.

We know it’s tempting to pull an all-nighter before a big exam, but cramming at the expense of sleep often backfires. Make getting 7-9 hours of shut-eye a non-negotiable part of your study plan.

BOGO: Double Down for Better Grades

Speaking of investing in your sleep, we've got an exciting promotion for you! When you buy a Parallel Pillow, you'll get a second one free as part of our BOGO (Buy One, Get One Free) offer. (Ending soon!)

But that’s not all — for every Parallel Pillow purchased, we donate a pillow to a person in need. So, you’re not only improving your own sleep, but also helping others get a good night’s rest. It's a win-win-win!

To learn more about the connection between sleep and academic performance, check out these helpful articles:

• Sleep Deprivation and Academic Performance (Nature)
• The Importance of Sleep for Learning and Memory (Science Daily)
• Why Sleep Is Essential for Students (Harvard Summer School)

The Parallel Pillow: Perfect for Students

For students heading off to college or living away from home for the first time, the Parallel Adjustable Pillow is the ideal sleep companion.

Its infinitely adjustable fill lets you customize your level of support, ensuring a comfortable night’s rest no matter your sleep position. The premium, moisture-wicking TENCEL™ cover keeps you cool and dry, year-round while our ParaPur™ antimicrobial technology helps maintain a fresh, clean, germ-free pillow regardless of dorm room cleanliness (or lack thereof 🤢).

Whether you’re catching those precious Z’s in a campus dormitory, an apartment, or still in your childhood bed, the Parallel Pillow adapts to your needs, helping you wake up refreshed and primed to tackle your studies. 

Don’t Go Back Without Your Parallel Pillow

Students, know this: making sleep a priority is one of the smartest moves you can make for your academic success 🎓 (not to mention your overall health and happiness!).

And parents, supporting your child’s healthy sleep habits is just as important as helping them with their homework. 📚 An amazing pillow is an attractive reason for them to get to bed. (And hugging a Parallel Pillow is a welcome comfort when away from home. We’ve done it.)

So, here’s to a school year filled with top grades, restful sleep, and unforgettable times!