Many of us have problems with falling asleep.
Lying in bed with your mind racing, counting down the hours until you have to get up again can be one of the most anxiety-inducing experiences.
And the most frustrating part is that the harder you try to fall asleep, the more sleep seems to elude you.
But now a TikToker is going viral after sharing a sleep method inspired by the military.
Fitness and health influencer Justin Agustin has brought the life hack to the masses.
He claims it will send people to sleep in under two minutes and even more impressively, it apparently works for around 96% of people!
Praising the method on his video, one viewer writes: “My mom taught me this and I taught my children. My son has many challenges and this helps him relax and fall asleep quickly, he’s 9.”
Another adds: “I’m a military brat and was taught this. I also had a veteran as a psychology teacher in college who taught this. It definitely works.”
A third person says: “Just woke up. It works.”
So, what is the military sleep method?
The military sleep method incorporates deep breathing, relaxation, and clearing your mind.
It’s credited to American track and field coach Lloyd Bud Winter and is explained in his 1981 book ‘Relax and Win: Championship Performance,’ as per Medium.
It’s made up of a series of small and simple steps.
Firstly, you must relax your entire face. Close your eyes. Breathe slowly and deeply. Then slowly relax all of your facial muscles.
Next, drop your shoulders and hands. Let go of any tension, starting at your shoulders, and then moving down your bicep, forearm, and hand.
Thirdly, you should exhale and relax your chest, keeping your shoulders and arms relaxed.
Then, you need to relax your legs in the same way you did your arms. Start with your thigh, then your calf, then your ankle, and then your foot.
You should try to clear your mind. Focus on a relaxing image and hold it in your mind’s eye.
If you can’t keep your mind from wandering, try repeating the words ‘don’t think’ in your brain for ten seconds.
@justin_agustin Technique to falling asleep in 2 minutes! Insp. AsapSCIENCE on YT #sleep #fallasleep #insomnia #insomniac #learnontiktok #howto ♬ You – Petit Biscuit
According to Verywell Mind, the military sleep method has many health benefits, as getting enough sleep means your mood will be boosted, your stress levels will be reduced, and a good night’s rest means improved focus.
