Here’s What Happened When I Stopped Using Screens at Night for One Week

What is sleepmaxxing?

If you're confused about sleepmaxxing, you're not alone — it's really not a straightforward term. It reminds us of what Will Ferrell said in Blades of Glory: "No one knows what it means but it's provocative...gets the people going." However, it actually has a meaning, and Dr. Bindal succinctly breaks it down. "Sleepmaxxing is the art and science of optimizing one's sleep and achieving the best possible quality & quantity of sleep by addressing every factor that can disrupt sleep," he says. This can look like using ear plugs, sleep masks, establishing specific sleep rituals, or anything else that is soothing and helpful.

Mainly, if you actually want to maximize your sleep, then you need to focus on what you do before you go to bed. Unbeknownst to us at times, our bedtime habits can affect the kind of rest we get (or not) at night. Dr. Bindal says, "Optimal Sleep hygiene methodologies including limiting light and sound exposure to using the latest sleep gadgets so sleepmaxxing aims to enhance sleep quality to the fullest." Unfortunately this means our habit of binge watching shows or scrolling mindlessly on TikTok at night aren't helping us.

I mean, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 35% of those surveyed have their sleep interrupted by lights inside of their homes. That's just lights, sans repetitious social media sounds and compelling television plots. When you add those on top of it all...let's just say we really are not doing ourselves any favors.

How does getting the proper amount of rest aid in our overall wellbeing?

Now that you have a better idea of what sleepmaxxing is, we have to talk about why it matters. Dr. Bindal says getting the "proper amount of sleep" helps support" the following "various bodily functions" including, but not limited to:

• Brain health — Enhanced cognition in domains of learning, concentration and consolidating memory by promoting phenomenon of hippocampal plasticity
• Immune system function — A production of essential immune cells, better equipped to fighting off infections
• Hormone regulation — A regulation of mood and reduced stress and physical repair that promotes muscle recovery, tissue repair, and overall physical development

He further explains that hormone regulation eventually leads to "improved mood, concentration, energy levels, and reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes."

Basically, the health benefits of slowing down and going to sleep outweigh what society often pushes — staying up later, longer and hustling at all hours of the day and night.

On average, how many hours of sleep are recommended?

How much rest are you truly getting at night? If you ask America's Health Rankings, 35% of adults are getting less than seven hours of sleep. Dr. Bindal says that while adults should sleep between seven and nine hours every night, and there are health risks for those who don't. "Research corroborates that adults who sleep less than seven hours a night may have more health issues than those who do," he explains. Johns Hopkins Medicinefound that sleep deprivation can lead to a "36% increased risk for colorectal cancer," propensity for developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and an overall lower immune system.

Saying "I'll sleep when I'm dead," may sound like a joke, but there's nothing funny about not letting your body get the rest it needs to function.

Should people with sleep difficulties try sleepmaxxing?

There are several reasons why your sleep could be negatively impacted right now. You may be dealing with insomnia due to stress, depression, or being a new parent. According to the American Psychological Association, 43% of people believe being stressed contributes to their lack of sleep. Furthermore, these same people have noticed their mood has shifted. The same reports shows that 45% of people who are getting less than the recommended hours of sleep have shared they feel on edge more than others while 52% have noticed they've been taking their frustrations out on those in their household.

Dr. Bindal agrees that sleepmaxxing can greatly benefit you if you're struggling because it can "enhance sleep quality to the fullest and emphasizes the importance of optimal sleep health."

How does sleepmaxxing benefit us?

Clearly, you need a certain amount of sleep to function properly and achieve all those goals you've so intentionally set recently (hello, October Theory!). That's where sleepmaxxing can come in. Dr. Bindal says, "Improved sleep quality can lead to enhanced mental clarity and emotional stability, making it easier to navigate daily challenges."

If you're planning to change a few habits, you're going to need all the strength and focus you can access because change isn't always easy — even if you welcome it! So when you're implementing these new nighttime routines, be sure to stick to them. Turn your phone on Do Not Disturb, avoid the itch to scroll socials, and make sure you're able to properly relax. It can make all the difference in the world!

How can we incorporate sleepmaxxing in our bedtime routines?

If you don't know how to make sleepmaxxing work for you, Dr. Bindal has great suggestions! "Key techniques include optimizing your sleep environment, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and managing stress and anxiety," he suggests.

One of the key ways you can make sure your room will promote a good night's sleep is by "adjusting the temperature" or "practicing a relaxation exercises before bed," he says. While meditation and mindfulness may be relaxation exercises that take practice over time, choosing the correct temperature is an easy way to set yourself up for success. Everyone's different, but he truly believes your room should be between 65 and 69 degrees Fahrenheit, too.

As Dr. Bindal mentioned before, eliminating sources of light can also aid in the rest you get. Personally, I can't sleep with the TV or lights on anymore because I just know it interrupts my sleep. My room is usually pitch black when it's time to go to sleep — to the point my three-year-old knows what it means when I turn everything off.

Besides these things, Dr. Bindal encourages you to maintain "consistent sleep and wake times" along with a "balanced diet and regular physical activity." Whether that means you start making your own Cava bowls inspired by the blue zone diet or doing workouts at home, they can aid in helping your body repair itself which then promotes the sleep you need.

Can we become too hyper-focused on our quality of sleep?

As with anything, too much of something can have adverse affects which rules out any benefits. Though sleepmaxxing can be a good thing for you, becoming fixated on it is likely going to make you even more stressed. "One of the primary concerns with sleepmaxxing is the development of orthosomnia, a condition caused by an obsession with tracking sleep metrics, with devices or apps, which increases anxiety and can further disrupt sleep, called paradoxical insomnia," Dr. Bindal warns.

If you become too obsessed with tracking every little thing, he says all this will do is "disrupt sleep cycles and limit the efficacy of insomnia treatments." But, he has an idea of what you can do to lessen the chance that'll happen. "Instead of over-analyzing how much sleep you’re getting, it’s important to understand that insomnia is a common and treatable condition, by incorporating healthy sleep hygiene routines organically and focusing on addressing the root causes of insomnia symptoms," he shares.

How can we optimize our sleep without getting sucked into wellness trends?

Whether you want to call it sleepmaxxing or not, all you have to do is normalize the tips Dr. Bindal mentioned above. "Some of the ways can include established a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, managing light exposure, and limiting screen time before you want to go to sleep," he reiterates. Social media isn't going anywhere so don't let your FOMO convince you that potential scandals or tutorials are more important than getting seven to nine hours of sleep.

Also, don't forget to "maintain a comfortable sleep environment" while being aware of your "caffeine and alcohol intake throughout the day," Dr. Bindal points out. Something tells us that we're going to have to be intentional about breaking up with our daily coffee runs and desires to unwind with a nice glass of wine. But if it means we'll sleep better, we'll add that to our list of habits to change!

Co-sleeping, or sharing a bed with your kids, might be the talk of the town right now, but it's actually been around for centuries. "Families choose to [co-sleep] for multiple reasons, sometimes simply because they may only have one bed or one bedroom," says Dr. Chafen Hart, a fellowship-trained pediatric sleep specialist at National Jewish Health. "I think while co-sleeping has enjoyed increased discussion, which is important, it is likely the frequency of co-sleeping is the same as ever."

Co-sleeping is most common with younger children (which makes sense considering how strong separation anxiety is for children between 18 months and 3 years), and generally peters out as a child gets older. While some parents choose not to co-sleep because of the risk of SUIDs (Sudden Unexpected Infant Death, which is more common in infants who share a bed with their parents), children can actually sleep better if they do so independently.

"The parent provides a sleep association which prevents a younger child from effectively napping at daycare or an older child from attending camp or going to a sleepover," Dr. Hart says. "When the child wakes in the middle of the night, they require the parent nearby and touching them to fall back asleep because they have a strong sleep association with co-sleeping."

However, your sleeping arrangements will likely look different from your best friends' or your extended family's because all of your children are different — as are their needs. Sleep issues or significant health issues are just two instances where co-sleeping can actually be beneficial for a child. And if co-sleeping doesn't affect your child at all? Dr. Hart recommends just enjoying the snuggles.

"For families who are content with their arrangement and the child is doing well during the day and has managed to learn the skill of falling asleep independently, I absolutely think they should continue to co-sleep," she says.

If you're worried your child has become too dependent on co-sleeping as they've aged, or if they can't sleep in their own bed at all, Dr. Hart recommends visiting a sleep doctor, therapist, or psychologist.

"In general, treatment should be personalized for the family and my recommendations change based on the age of the child," she says. "For older children who are neurodevelopmentally typical, rewards and gradual extinction of parental presence can work. For younger children, we employ additional strategies like delayed bedtimes [and] sibling co-sleeping."

I slept in the same bed as my sister growing up, and I remember our late night conversations so fondly. Getting to know each other's personalities, fears, and senses of humor at such a young age only ended up strengthening our relationship!

Teaching your child to sleep well is vital for their brain and bodily health, but it's also important for parents to get sleep too! And if you're feeling overwhelmed and under-rested, know you're not alone. "Parents should know they are not alone and that co-sleeping should be a part of the conversation with their doctors," Dr. Hart says. "Pediatricians have heard it all! And some children naturally have a MUCH harder time than others learning the skill of sleeping."

Setting expectations, habits, and boundaries early (should you choose to do so) will take time and commitment on your part, but it'll teach your kids "the serious skill of falling asleep with confidence."

"Long term good sleep habits and skills mean the school-aged child will be confident, traveling without anxiety around sleep, falling asleep without serious power struggles which stress the whole family and allowing the parents much needed rest time as well," Dr. Hart says. All this talk is making me sleepy — I gotta try our 5 Best Ways To Beat Fatigue!

A Timeline Of Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce's Relationship

September, 24 2023 - Taylor Swift Started Attending Kansas City Chiefs Games

Taylor Swift started attending Kansas City Chiefs games in 2023, seemingly after an indirect invite from Travis Kelce himself. When Taylor played her Eras Tour at Arrowhead Stadium (the Chiefs' home stadium), Travis tried to give her a friendship with his number on it.

“I was disappointed that she doesn’t talk before or after her shows because she has to save her voice for the 44 songs that she sings,” Travis told his brother after Jason during an episode of their New Heights podcast. “I was a little butt hurt I didn’t get to hand her one of the bracelets I made for her.”

Considering Taylor Swift has now gone to many Chiefs games — and nearly broken the internet — we're pretty sure he's not upset anymore!

On September 24, 2023, Taylor Swift watched the NFL game with Travis' mom, Donna. After the football game — in which Taylor sat with Donna, and created (another) pop culture phenomenon with a single photo — not only did Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce leave the Arrowhead Stadium locker room together, but they also drove away in Travis' convertible as a pair!

October 1, 2023 - Taylor Brought Some Friends To Watch The Chiefs

On October 1, 2023, Taylor was joined by all-star BFFs Sabrina Carpenter, Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Sophie Turner, and Hugh Jackman to watch the Chiefs play against the New York Jets. While Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift didn't leave the stadium together after THIS game was over, the fact that Taylor was surrounded by so many of her friends felt like they were there to support something quite special. 💓

We'd be remiss not to mention a few easter eggs from this game while we're at it! This romance feels so much like a callback to Taylor's 1989 era, where she spent a lot of 2013 to 2015 hanging with her friends in the coolest NYC spots. Plus, she's wearing all black (and some edgy accessories on her shorts) while we all speculate on what she's up to and who she's dating, which is not too dissimilar from her Reputation era. 👀

October 12, 2023 - Taylor Swift Makes A Good First Impression

We know Taylor always tries to make a good impression (hello "Mirrorball!"), but it turns out, she also makes a good impression without even trying.

The first time Taylor met Travis Kelce's dad, Ed, he noticed how genuine she was when she started helping around the suite. “She gets up to go get a drink or something, and she starts picking up empty bottles, cans, plates that are scattered around," he toldPeople. “And I'm just thinking, 'I don't think she got the diva memo. She didn't get the spoiled musician. She doesn't know how to pull that off.' And that really to me said a whole lot.”

October 14, 2023 - Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Were On SNL

Yes, Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce were both on the October 14 episode of Saturday Night Live in 2023. The couple attended the SNL afterparty together and fans were very quick to spot how much the football player took care of the singer. He opened doors for her, made sure she was okay, and reportedly even told a bodyguard that he could step aside. When I first saw the images, they looked so much like a rom-com cover to me that I thought they were photoshopped!

Then on the following Sunday night, Travis and Taylor were seen in New York City again as they made their way into a restaurant (once again holding hands!). It might be important for Swifties to note that both of Taylor's outfits are black, edgy, and very Reputation-coded... I can't wait to see what she has up her sleeve!

October 19, 2023 - Travis Apparently Plans To Visit Taylor On Her International Tour

At this point, ET had reported that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were "all in" on their relationship, according to an inside source. They told the outlet that Travis intended to head to Buenos Aires, Argentina while he was on a bye-week for the Kansas City Chiefs. We hope he was able to give her those friendship bracelets this time! 😘

October 22, 2023 - Taylor Swift Is Improving Travis Kelce's Game

After a 31-17 win on October 22, 2023, Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid acknowledged Taylor's influence on Travis' game during a press conference. He noted that Travis' performance is only improving and that “Taylor can stay around all she wants.”

The October 22 game also appeared to be the couple's official hard launch. Chiefs wide reciever Mecole Hardman Jr.'s girlfriend Chariah Gordon posted a series of photos with Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce after the game — including this one where Taylor's kissing Travis on the cheek! Swoon!

October 31, 2023 - Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Celebrate Halloween Together

On an episode of Jason Kelce's New Heights podcast, Travis said he loves the idea of a dinner party on Halloween night. "Like a Halloween dinner party. Everybody comes in costumes and we have a party," he says in the conversation.

But he also refuses to admit what costume he picked. "I'm gonna let mine be a surprise," he says. "I'll make sure everybody sees it, and we'll talk about it after Halloween."

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship only continues to get deeper in October 2023, especially since a source told ET Online that Taylor could be the one for Travis: "Everyone close to Travis loves that he is happy. He is on the path to finding that special person in Taylor."

However, given the frenzy around Taylor, and the media coverage of their relationship in general, Travis' family is also fairly concerned for their safety. (And after hundreds of fans showed up uninvited to see Taylor attend a private wedding, we kind of are too, TBH).

"They're so appreciative of their fans, but hope to keep some aspects of their relationship private going forward," the source continued. "This level of stardom is something new to Travis, and although he can handle it, he is still getting used to it. Safety is a major concern among everyone, especially given how passionate fans feel about their relationship."

November 5, 2023 - Taylor Swift (Virtually) Celebrates Travis Kelce's New Record

After the Kansas City Chiefs game on November 5, 2023, People posted on Instagram celebrating Travis Kelce's new title as the KC Chiefs' leading receiver with 10,941 receiving yards. Taylor Swift liked the post, and considering she's very strategic and intentional about her Instagram activity, Swifites were very excited.

"Me giggling cuz TS liked this post," one user commented. "It’s an interesting time for Taylor & Kelce" another said. "They are both at supremely high career success points. What joy!"

On November 9, 2023, a source told US Weeklythat Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce “actually spend a lot of one-on-one time together and have developed a very real connection," plus the fact that "they have very detailed plans coming up on how to stay together while she’s on tour and he has games.”

November 11, 2023 - Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Have A Rom-Com Moment

On November 11, 2023, Taylor changed the lyrics of her song "Karma" from "Karma is the guy on the screen coming straight home to me" to "Karma is the guy on the Chiefs coming straight home to me" (a move that seemed somewhat spontaneous considering how surprised her backup dancers were!).

Travis revealed on the November 15 episode of the New Heights podcast that he had a "little bit of a clue" she'd change the lyrics. 👀

"Definitely when I heard it come out of her mouth, [it] still shocked me," he said. "I was like...'Oh, she really just said that, alright.'" He was so shocked in fact, that he didn't even realize Taylor's dad was trying to high five him. "Mr. Swift, I apologize big guy," he continued. "I never miss a high five too, big high five guy!"

And, after the show, Taylor went straight up to Travis standing outside a VIP tent and the coupleshared a kiss. It felt like it was straight out of a rom-com — a pop star running up to a star football player and surprising him with a kiss! The crowd at the concert went wild, but the internet also couldn't stop talking about it!

"This is sooooo adorable," one X user said. "Her little run. His hands behind his back like he’s waiting for his prom date or something. Ughhh they’re both in deep."

November 20, 2023 - Travis Kelce Spills On His Relationship In WSJ Magazine

Travis Kelce once again broke the internet with his WSJ Magazine cover story. In it, he talks about football, his family, and (of course) Taylor Swift. “I’ve never been a man of words. Being around her, seeing how smart Taylor is, has been f—king mind-blowing," he says. “Obviously I’ve never dated anyone with that kind of aura about them…But at the same time, I’m not running away from any of it…She’s just living, enjoying life. When she acts like that I better not be the one acting all strange.”

Even Kelce's mom had something to add! “I can tell you this,” she says in the interview. “He’s happier than I’ve seen him in a long time… God bless him, he shot for the stars!”

Fans were also hoping to find out if Taylor and Travis were spending Thanksgiving together. Via Page Six, Taylor was set to fly back from her Eras Tour shows in Rio de Janeiro to spend the holidays in the states before heading back for another show on November 24. TMZreported that the couple "plans to be together for the holidays," which included lining their schedules up to spend as much time together as they can.

Taylor celebrated another one of Travis' milestones on Instagram, when she liked a post from the Kansas City Chiefs. "Fastest tight end to 11k receiving yards AND the only player in franchise history to do it," the post says. According to a Daily Mail source, as soon as Taylor Swift's Eras Tour wrapped up its 2023 dates, she moved into Travis' private Kansas City mansion (which he reportedly bought for them to spend time together) for the duration of her break — which included her birthday and Christmas.

December 3, 2023 - Taylor Shows Up To The Chiefs Game Looking Festive

Taylor Swift hung out in the box seats with Brittany Mahomes in Green Bay, Wisconsin during the Kansas City Chiefs game against the Green Bay Packers.

Not only is Taylor Swift's jacket KC Chiefs red, but it was also totally Christmas appropriate! "Travis' friends think this is the real deal for him,” an insider told Peopleat the end of November 2023. “They're still a little shocked by all of it — that he's dating the Taylor Swift, but they've seen how down to earth she is with his friends and family.”

But before Taylor donned her Elmo-approved red coat, the couple was already in the Christmas spirit. They showed up to Miracle, a pop-up bar in Kansas City, on December 1, for the Chiefs' holiday party. It appears they were wearing some festive sweatshirts (as well as Taylor's signature red lip). I hope they also got to have some more chicken with "seemingly ranch".

December 6, 2023 - Taylor Talks Travis In Her TIME Person Of The Year Article

There's been pleeeeenty of speculation about when Taylor and Travis actually started dating. Was it that first Chiefs game? Were they just friends still? Was it before that game? While only the lovebirds know their true timeline, Taylor gave us a peek behind the curtain in her TIME MagazinePerson of the Year article.

According to Tay herself, the pair started hanging out immediately after Travis first mentioned her on his New Heightspodcast. She said, “We started hanging out right after that. So we actually had a significant amount of time that no one knew, which I’m grateful for, because we got to get to know each other. By the time I went to that first game, we were a couple. I think some people think that they saw our first date at that game? We would never be psychotic enough to hard launch a first date.”

Swift continued by explaining that she and Travis "show up for each other" and that they're "just proud of each other." BRB, sobbing.

On December 8, 2023, an insider told Life & Style Mag that Travis is planning something special for Taylor's 34th birthday on December 13. “Travis has something special planned,” they say. “He’s arranged a very intimate romantic dinner just for the two of them, and is also trying to pull off a semi-surprise party with the help of some of her closest friends."

The insider also says Travis could use the evening to propose to Taylor, which we would TOTALLY be in favor of.

December 10, 2023 - Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Share Some Swoon-Worthy PDA

After the KC Chiefs and Buffalo Bills game on December 10, 2023, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce went out with the team to celebrate. They wound up back at the Miracle pop-up bar! The evening was sure to lift Travis' spirits after the Chiefs' loss, and I, for one, need to make Taylor's Christmapolitan drink ASAP.

Thanks to the Chiefs' barber, @patty_cuts, we also have a pic of Taylor and Travis embracing each other at the bar! If you ask me, this deserves to be a movie poster, because I feel like we're living in a real-life rom-com. And apparently, one of their friends agrees!

"We had an amazing time," Chetarah Jackson (a friend of Travis' who sat with Taylor in the suite at the game) told ET. "Taylor and Travis are so in love. It was so cute seeing them together and I can see them getting married."

December 17, 2023 - Taylor Swift Gets Cozy At The Chiefs x Patriots Game

Taylor Swift showed up to the KC Chiefs vs. New England Patriots game looking both comfy and cute in a Chiefs sweatshirt and beanie. In addition to Alana Haim and Brittany Mahomes, Taylor's dad, Scott Swift, also showed up to the game, which ended up being a big deal because he wore KC Chiefs gear after he's been a lifelong Philadelphia Eagles fan! 👀

Scott wasn't the only one having fun with the couple! Kaleigh Teller (Miles Teller's wife and a good friend of Taylor Swift) recently liked a TikTok speculating Travis got Taylor a very special birthday present: the ring Taylor wore during her party. It appears to be an opal stone surrounded by blue topaz, and if that's true, it has so much meaning because Travis' birthstone is opal and Taylor's is blue topaz! Thoughtful gifts are our absolute favorites... and it looks like they're Travis' too.

Travis also told People that even though he had a game on Christmas Day (his brother Jason does, too), the holiday "will be a fun one."

"My brother sent me a text and said he’s going to be celebrating afterwards," Travis continued. He also confirmed that he's planning on celebrating Christmas after the 25th too — hopefully with Taylor!

According to Page Six, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce also spent the rest of the holidays together.

December 22, 2023 - Patrick Mahomes Talks Taylor And Travis 👀

Patrick Mahomes hopped on CBS Morningsin December and gave his inside scoop on Taylor and Travis. While noting how comfortable Taylor is with "Chiefs Kingdom," Patrick also took a moment to recognize her many achievements.

"He's lucky enough to be with a great girl and a great woman, and it's been cool to interact with her because she's top tier of her profession — and how she drives and she becomes that, it's really cool to hear about and to see." He followed up by saying, "I'm glad that she's the person that she is, and that's why I think her and Travis match so well."

Clearly, Tay got the BFF stamp of approval!

December 25, 2023 - Taylor Swift + Family Attend Chiefs vs. Raiders

Taylor and Santa... I mean... Austin Swift hung out at Arrowhead stadium alongside their mom and dad, Andrea and Scott. The family had some holiday fun with the Mahomes family and Papa Kelce, with Austin allegedly tossing snowballs to the fans below. Merry Swiftmas to us all!

December 31, 2023 - Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Share An NYE Kiss

After a Chiefs win, Taylor and Travis stepped out in style at a NYE party with their friends and family. Travis wore a Midnights-esque outfit, in head-to-toe brown courduroy — come on, '70s!

Of course, Taylor made the whole place shimmer in a stunning silver sequin dress by Cleo Peppiatt, paired with celestial hair pins and her signature red lip, which was allegedly smudged later on in the night. 😘

We got a peek at the kiss in question on Instagram, originally posted by @krystenrachelle. It's definitely giving, "I want your midnights!" 😍

January 21, 2024 - Taylor Swift Hangs Out With Jason And Kylie Kelce

After months of attending Travis Kelce's games, Taylor Swift was finally in the box at the same time as Jason Kelce's wife, Kylie, and this is a WAG friendship we are TOTALLY here for.

Despite the media pitting them against each other, the two women were seen laughing and spending time together in the box, which really just leads me to wonder why we're constantly obsessed with women not being friends? "Kylie is so great," a source told People. "Everybody loves her."

The most talked-about moment from the game, however, can be chalked up to Jason Kelce, who jumped out of the box shirtless and started yelling at the top of his lungs. He's since been called the KC Chiefs' “No. 1 hype man,”been compared to Gabriela Montez, and gotten people's hopes up for a very lively best man speech.

Someone also captured Taylor Swift's reaction to Jason's viral moment, and it's just as funny as the moment itself!

Taylor wasn't the only one who knows how to be goofy — Travis Kelce's teammate Patrick Mahomes told People that despite the newfound media frenzy over Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce (and achieving his "dream" of being on SNL), Travis remains just as fun and down-to-earth as he always was.

“Travis has always been Travis,” Patrick told People. “He still will walk through the stadium and treat every single person like they’re his best friend. And he’s going to be like that in the locker room every single day.”

January 28 - Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Celebrate A Chiefs Win... And Break The Internet

After the Kansas City Chiefs won a game against the Baltimore Ravens on January 28, the team was headed to the Super Bowl! Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce celebrated with a kiss on the field, and fans have been comparing their total rom-com moment to everyone from One Tree Hill's Lucas and Peyton toA Cinderella Story's Austin and Samever since.

But the biggest moment of the night was when, during their embrace, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce could be heard saying "I love you." According a post-game video, Travis says, “Tay, I'm going to enjoy with the guys I love you... so much it’s not even funny.” And it appears Taylor responds with “I love you too... I’ve never been so proud, EVER.” Then they go in for a kiss and a bear hug. OMG!

Jason Kelce later went on to add Taylor in with the rest of the family on the New Heights podcast: “We had the whole family down on the field. We had me, Mom, Dad, and Taylor. Everybody was down there.” Stop it right now, Jason!

In addition to a mockneck red sweater, Taylor was decked out in a gold friendship bracelet of her + Travis' initials, as well as #87-themed jewelry to support her BF. I also find it VERY important info that Taylor Swift is a square nail gal (Will this inspire my next manicure? Only time will tell).

I predicted that Taylor would show up the the Super Bowl, despite wrapping up the Tokyo leg of the Eras Tour the day before. I thought this would be a huge moment because, despite being asked to perform multiple times, Taylor has never actually performed at the Super Bowl, so she's never really had a reason to go.

Another popular fan theory is that in the past, this was due to Taylor Swift being a face of Diet Coke (she really is just like us!), while the halftime show has historically had Pepsi as a sponsor.

February 5, 2024 - Travis Kelce Supports Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poet's Department

After Taylor Swift announced her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, at the 2024 Grammys, Travis Kelce showed support for the new album during a press conference — and he's just as excited about the new music as we are!

"She's unbelievable, she's rewriting history books herself," he said of her fourth Album of the Year win. "I told her I'll have to hold up my end of the bargain and come home with some hardware too...It's been fun to kind of gather the Swifties in the Chiefs' kingdom and open them up to the football world and the sports world."

"I have heard some of [Taylor Swift's new album], yes, and it is unbelievable," he continued. "I can't wait for her to shake up the world when it finally drops."

Travis ALSO responded to the rumors that he's looking to propose to Taylor Swift after a reporter straight up asked whether there'd be more than just a Super Bowl ring if the Chiefs won the Big Game.

"I’m focused on getting this ring, and that’s all that my mind’s focused on right now," Travis said.

February 11, 2024 - Taylor Swift Attends The Super Bowl And Catches A Nail-Biting Chiefs Win

Taylor Swift was there to witness the Kansas City Chiefs spar off against the San Fransisco 49ers at Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas and ultimately see Travis' team win the game in overtime 25-22.

Taylor was spotted in box seats alongside her girl gang, Blake Lively, Ice Spice, and Ashley Avignone. Lana Del Rey joined the squad later in the game, too!

Taylor quickly tossed back a few drinks as the excitement ramped up (iconic if you ask me) in the first half of the game. After the big victory, she swiftly ran to the field to celebrate with Travis.

“Come here, girl," he said to her. They instantly embraced and shared a long kiss in celebration of the Chiefs win. But that wasn't all!

Taylor tagged along with Travis and his teammates to the official Super Bowl after-party at Zouk Nightclub in Las Vegas. The couple danced and sang, and the club even played a few of Taylor's hits! The couplekissed during "Love Story"and even pointed at each other across the dance floorwhile a remix "You Belong With Me" blasted. Travis Kelce switched up the lyrics, singing "Are you in love with me?" instead of "You belong with me" — to which Taylor raised her glass, smiled, and danced the night away. 🎶 If you ask me, this viral moment is just the latest profession of love between the two.

“I love how he just came very quickly when your song was on,” model Marianne Fonseca tells Taylor Swift in a viral clip. “That was the most romantic thing ever.”

"We met in the middle, and I was like, 'What is my life right now?'" Taylor jokes.

The power duo left the function wearing matching glittery black outfits, holding hands the entire time. To say we're obsessed is a true understatement.

So, what's next for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce?

Taylor will continue to embark on the international leg of her Eras Tour in Australia starting February 16. Based on everything the couple's been through so far, we don't see them going anywhere.

February 21, 2024 - Did Travis Kelce go to Australia to see Taylor Swift? Yes!

Our fave couple continues to enjoy their time together. A source told People that they are "really happy" and "having a lot of fun, but they're still seeing where it goes." Travis Kelce also landed in Sydney on February 21 to support Taylor Swift (and our gal Sabrina Carpenter) during the Australian leg of the Eras Tour. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce spent an afternoon at the Sydney Zoo, but did they act out any scenes from Anyone But You? We can only hope.

Travis Kelce had plenty to say about Taylor Swift in an episode of his podcast New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce. “They helicoptered us! Well, not us, Taylor,” he says. “This is all because Taylor is the biggest and the best thing possible."

While Travis was almost entirely focused on Taylor during the conversation about Australia, he couldn't help but mention his favorite zoo animals. "The kangaroos were pretty sweet, got to see a red panda up close and personal," he continues. "It’s like a friendly raccoon...saw a tiger sitting up in a tree house, that sh—t was f—king sweet, ain’t gonna lie."

February 23, 2024 — Taylor Swift Celebrates Travis Kelce At The Eras Tour

During her first concert in Sydney, Australia, Taylor Swift added a few blink-and-you'll-miss-'em details to her show in honor of Travis Kelce. She ended up pointing directly to him during "Willow," when she sings "that's my man," and during "Long Live," when she sings "when they gave us our trophies" (in honor of his Super Bowl win!). She also changed the "Karma" lyrics to "Karma is the guy on the Chiefs coming straight home to me." And when the concert was done? Taylor ran directly to him and gave him a big kiss. Rom-com energy!!

“When she started to come around, it was privately,” defensive backs coach Dave Merritt tells The Sports Shop With Reese & Kmac. “She was coming into the stadiums without people really knowing until the camera put a big spotlight on it.”

"[Taylor Swift] actually affected the team in a positive way," Dave continues. "Everybody was excited that Travis was happy. So when my player, my brother, is happy beside me, that helps me and that encourages me."

And after Travis started dating Taylor, Dave saw even more of a shift! "And so Travis came in there a different man...She won a Super Bowl in her first year in the NFL," he jokes. "How about that?"

March 13, 2024 — Travis Kelce Talks About The Eras Tour In Singapore

It looks like Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter are in their lover era because both Travis Kelce and Sabrina Carpenter's boyfriend Barry Keoghan showed up to the Eras Tour in Singapore!

"Fun times in Singapore," Travis says on the New Heights podcast he shares with Jason Kelce. "I got to check out the world's largest greenhouse. How about that? I'm a big plant guy. Loved seeing f—king enormous trees. It was cool as f—k, they had the world's biggest waterfall in a greenhouse, too...It was awesome man. Everything was blooming at the same time, it was so f—king unique and so nice."

But Travis ALSO got to go to two Eras Tour concerts ahead of Taylor Swift's latest hiatus (she's on a break until her first Paris concert on May 9th) — and enjoyed the shows just as much as the sights!

"I got to see two amazing shows of the Eras Tour," Travis continues. "The last of the leg that Taylor has until she's back at it here in a couple months. Yeah outside of that, got to eat some lovely Singapore food and just catch the views. Everything over there just seems so nice."

March 20, 2024 — Travis Kelce Can't Stop Watching Love Is Blind

After a crazy year of the Eras Tour and the Super Bowl, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are focusing on their time together! "They’re focused on rest and recuperation and relaxing at home and having low-key and chill time together,” a source tells Us Weekly. “They are enjoying movie nights in her home theater, catching up on films and shows they’ve missed.”

We're always wondering what our favorite stars are binge watching right now, and apparently, Travis Kelce watchlist includes Love Is Blind. "You gotta watch Love Is Blind," he tells his brother Jason Kelce on a recent episode of New Heights. "It is the worst trash ever — it's worse than Catching Kelce — but it is so f—king good." (Jason's not so convinced).

But considering Travis almost seems like he's loving the show against his will, it's making me wonder if he's watching it with Taylor Swift — or if Taylor's the one who got him to watch it in the first place. I could totally see Travis and Taylor curled up on the couch with a plate of chai cookies, a blanket, and Netflix. Cozy!

March 20, 2024 — Travis Kelce Says He "Can't Wait" To Have Kids

On that same episode of New Heights, Travis Kelce also let it slip he may be ready for kids sooner than later. When the Super Bowl winner was talking about NBA player Victor Wembanyama, Travis joked he was so talented he must have been engineered.

“You can’t tell me that dude wasn’t made in a f—king lab over there in France," Travis says. “Can’t wait til I f—kin’ make one.”

“Don’t do this," Jason jokes. "Do not give any of these other conspiracy theorists anything else to latch onto, please.” Oops, it might be too late Jason!

March 24, 2024 — Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Go On A Lunch Date

After a busy winter, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce finally took some R+R and went on a big trip together! “They vacationed in the Bahamas for several days," a source tells PEOPLE. "It was a much-needed break for both of them. They very much enjoyed it. They are so happy together.”

After their Bahamas vacation, Taylor and Travis grabbed a Sunday lunch in Malibu. They both looked super cute and springy with Taylor wearing a bright blue sweater, a tan skort, and loafers, while Travis wore an oatmeal-colored pullover, hat, and a friendship bracelet.

April 1, 2024 — Travis Kelce And Taylor Swift's Relationship Has Been "Amazing"

On April 1, Kylie Kelce told the Today show just how happy their family is for the couple. “Ultimately, if Travis is happy, we’re happy,” Kylie says. “We are always cheering on Uncle Trav, it’s such a treat to be able to do that on and off the field...It’s been amazing.”

"I'm the happiest I've ever been," Travis Kelce tells People. "I'm a guy that some people say is glass half full, half empty, and my glass is all the way full. It's all the way full...I'm oozing life right now."

April 2, 2024 — Travis Kelce Confirms He'll Be At The Eras Tour In Europe

Swifties might be gearing up for The Tortured Poets Department, but Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are still thinking about this year's stint of the Eras Tour!

“We are both very career-driven," he tells Entertainment Tonight. "I think we both love what we do and any chance that I can show my support to her — knowing that she has shown me all the support in the world throughout the season — it’s just been an amazing experience getting to know Tay."

Travis hasn't confirmed which concerts he'll show up to, but he does say the London shows are "can't-miss" concerts. "I think she’s at Wembley [Stadium] eight times?" he says. "Which is mind-blowing that she can do that many shows in one stadium and fill that thing up."

April 10, 2024 — Travis Kelce Doesn't "Know How" He Managed To Date Taylor Swift

On a spring episode of his New Heights podcast, Travis Kelce admits he's still shocked he's dating Taylor Swift. "I don't know how I did it because she wasn't into sports," he says. "So I don't know how the f—k I did it." But considering Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are two of the biggest people in the entire world, I am more than happy they found each other!

April 15, 2024 — Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Attend Coachella

The first weekend of Coachella was full of incredible performances from Lana Del Rey and Sabrina Carpenter (plus a very cute moment from Justin and Hailey Bieber) but it also gave Taylor Swift the opportunity to enjoy a concert from the audience! The Tortured Poets Department singer showed up to support Jack Antonoff and Bleachers, and even hung out with the band afterwards.

Taylor and Travis also attended Ice Spice's set and the rapper (who's featured on Midnights) performed her remix of "Karma"! That means Taylor finally got the full Swiftie experience, dancing to her music in the audience, and I love that for her.

April 16, 2024 — Patrick Mahomes Says Taylor Swift Picked Up A Few Things From The NFL

In his TIME100 interview, Patrick Mahomes says Taylor Swift has learned a lot about football. “Even when she’s taking her downtime, she’s working on something," he says. "Shooting a music video or singing a song or writing a song. You can see it by how she talks. Even when she’s talking about football, when she’s learning it, you can see her business mind putting it together. It’s almost like she’s trying to become a coach. ‘Why can’t you try this, this, and this?’ She’s asking the right questions.”

“I’ve met a lot of famous people now in my life,” Patrick continues. “Taylor’s probably the most down-to-earth person that’s been on that stage for that long.”

April 19, 2024 — Taylor Swift Releases The Tortured Poets Department

April 22, 2024 — Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce Could Attend The Met Gala

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have reportedly been invited to the 2024 Met Gala and I would love for this to be their red carpet debut (and for it to end up being a song on TS12?!) We'll have to wait until May 6 to find out!

April 27, 2024 — Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Take Vegas

While in Vegas for the 15 and Mahomies Foundation Golf Classic, Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift spent plenty of quality time together. They can be seen laughing and holding hands — and offered up four exclusive tickets to the Eras Tour for the auction! And when the gala ended, Travis went to the Wynn’s XS nightclub for a party into the early hours of Sunday morning.

May 15, 2024 — Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Explore Italy

During a break from the Eras Tour, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce took some time to relax and see the sights near Lake Como, Italy. And they also shared a kiss on a boat a few days later!

May 18, 2024 — Travis Kelce Says His "Life Could Be No Better"

At the 2024 Kelce Jam music festival presented by Jim Beam on May 18, Travis got up in front of the Azura Amphitheater and explained how much he's loving life right now. “Throughout all my years in [Kansas City], life could be no better than right the f—k now,” he says (via Page Six).

“It’s alive and popping in Kansas City and I know you guys feel that s–t too,” he continues. “I’ve been so thankful that you guys show up and show out every single time when we play at Arrowhead [Stadium] that we’re going to keep bringing Kelce Jam to you in the offseasons, baby.”

May 19, 2024 — Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Might Attend The Monaco Grand Prix

In between Eras Tour shows, Taylor Swift will reportedly reunite with Travis Kelce in Europe and head to the Monaco Grand Prix, via the US Sun. Travis and his teammate Patrick Mahomes are investors in the Alpine Formula One team, so showing up to the Prix only makes sense! Plus, it gives TayVis the opportunity to explore the beautiful European country on the coast, full of castles and gardens. It's giving Princess Diaries!!

June 22, 2024 — Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Go Instagram Official

Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in London was QUITE the show. Not only did Travis show up onstage, but Taylor and Travis finally went Instagram official — and with the Prince of Wales no less! "Happy Bday M8!" Taylor captioned a selfie featuring Travis, Prince William, Prince George, and Princess Charlotte. "London shows are off to a splendid start."

This is the first time Taylor has posted a boyfriend on her Instagram grid since 2016, and I am totally here for it!

June 28, 2024 — Jason Kelce Spills On Taylor And Travis

We know that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are still enjoying their relationship thanks to a recent interview with Jason Kelce! "Yeah, there's no question," he said when asked about the relationship at the end of June. "I mean, it has more than changed Travis's [life]."

"We just want to be supportive of him and their relationship and everything that they've got going on, because it's so wonderful right now," he continues. We love this family!

August 15, 2024 – Taylor And Travis Are "Very Affectionate," Even When They're Apart

A source close to Taylor and Travis dished about the inside details of their relationship to Entertainment Tonight, noting that "their connection is unlike anything that they've ever experienced before."

The source told ET that even though Taylor's in Europe for the Eras Tour and Travis is training for the start of NFL season, the two lovebirds still find time to text, FaceTime, and send each other gifts. That's commitment, baby!

September 3, 2024 — Travis Kelce Reveals Taylor Swift Is Super Interested In Football

Taylor's interest in football has only increased since the beginning of her relationship with Travis Kelce, and is having fun drafting plays for him! “She’s a little biased and just creates plays for me. We’ll see if they can make it to Coach Reid’s office," Travis reveals on the Rich Eisen Show.

“She had just been so open to learning the game, she didn’t know much about the rules or anything…I think she was just curious about the profession,” he continues. “I know none of the plays have gotten to Coach Reid yet, but if they ever do I’ll make sure everyone knows it was her creation."

September 11, 2024 — Taylor Swift Thanks Travis Kelce In Her VMA's Acceptance Speech

While accepting the award for Video of the Year for "Fortnight," Taylor Swift thanked Travis Kelce for always making set days more fun. "This video, it seems very sad when you watch it, but it actually was, like, the most fun video to make," she says. "And something that I'll always remember is when I would finish a take and I'd say ‘cut,’ and we'd be done with that take, I would always just hear, like, someone cheering from across the studio where we were shooting it, and that one person was my boyfriend, Travis."

"Everything this man touches turns to happiness and fun and magic," she continues. "So, I want to thank him for adding that to our shoot because I’ll always remember that."

This is a huge deal because it's the first time Taylor has publicly confirmed her relationship with Travis Kelce! We've always known they were meant to be :').

October 14, 2024 — Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce Watch A Baseball Game

Taylor and Travis attended the Cleveland Guardians vs. New York Yankees championship game — and this image just makes me giggle because I've disassociated at every single baseball game I've attended, and it looks like Taylor's doing the same.

There's always an air of intrigue when it comes to our favorite celebrity relationships, but according to one DeuxMoi source, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have no secrets between them. "Taylor has had Travis's phone in her hand on multiple occasions and it appears she has his passcode too," they write. "He's not going to be accepting texts from an ex. People really try to paint him out to be an idiot."

November 2, 2024 — Travis Kelce Shows Up To The Eras Tour

Taylor Swift performed her last US concert the weekend of November 2, ahead of her final Eras Tour show on December 8, and Travis Kelce had the sweetest surprise waiting for her: himself! He reportedly showed up without Taylor knowing, and a source told Page Six the popstar was "shocked" — as was her family! You can actually see Andrea standing with her mouth openbefore hugging him!

"Andrea and Austin didn’t think Travis was going to be able to make it,” the source says. “They were shocked when he showed up. It was an amazing surprise and they were thrilled he was able to be there for such an important occasion.”

November 14, 2024 — Donna Kelce Reveals Whether Taylor Swift Will Spend Thanksgiving With The Family

As we're all prepping the best Thanksgiving appetizers and sides, Donna Kelce just spilled on her family's plans for the holiday. "I am going to be at a football game. Travis is playing the day after Thanksgiving,” she said on TODAY. As for whether Taylor will be with the family? "I don't think so. She's kind of busy right now. She still has her tour to do."

So, what's the relationship between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce?

According to Taylor herself (via an interview with Time), the pair started seeing each other right after Travis "called her out" on his New Heightspodcast in July.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship continues to get more serious. “They share a strong work ethic and have a huge appreciation for life and their careers, strong family bond and values," the insider tells People.

An insider also shared that during Taylor's break from the Eras Tour (during September and October), she enjoyed catching up with all of her friends and “had fun spending time with Travis.“ We cannot get enough of this couple!

How old is Taylor Swift and how old is Travis Kelce?

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were both born in 1989. Travis just turned 34 on October 5, and since Taylor Swift's birthday is December 13, she's 34 now, too!

After Travis and Taylor left Arrowhead Stadium together, some Swifties noticed Travis was wearing a blue and white set, and wondered whether it served as a 1989 (Taylor's Version) double release Easter egg.