Can't sleep fast? Harvard scientist has shared a simple trick and netizens are divided on it

Do you have trouble sleeping fast? Well, try wearing socks to bed. (Picture Credit: Unsplash)

Falling asleep as soon as you hit the bed can be a struggle for many people. It is thus common to find many taking medications and supplements for relief. While they may provide relief, there are ways to sleep faster and naturally with simple tricks that are easy to do.

Secret to sleeping faster naturally

Dr Trisha Pasricha, a Harvard scientist, in one of her Instagram posts, shared that wearing cozy socks to bed was as effective as melatonin for sleep. In fact, it’s not just limited to socks, there are other ways to warm your feet and prep the body for sleep, which work as replacements for sleep medications.

“Warming up your feet is scientifically shown to induce drowsiness, and it is just as effective as many over-the-counter sleep medications,” she said. And if socks are not your thing, she suggested taking a warm shower one to two hours before hitting the bed or just soaking your feet in warm water for about ten minutes.

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These work as effectively as taking supplements. “These tricks can help you fall asleep about 7 to 10 minutes faster and may help you stay asleep longer. For perspective, melatonin supplements help people fall asleep about seven minutes faster.”

How does the warming technique help?

According to Trisha, many studies have investigated this phenomenon and studied how it works. “The idea is that warmth dilates the blood vessels in your skin, and that actually helps cool your core. This is important because our body’s core temperature drops by 2 or 3 degrees Fahrenheit just as we are falling asleep. Having a slightly colder room overall is helpful to keep that core cool and help you stay asleep.”

Internet reacts to wearing socks to bed

Her expert advice about wearing socks to bed received mixed reactions. Many agreed with her, with one saying, “I feel validated! I just started wearing fuzzy socks & it works for me.” Another comment read, “OMG! I knew there was a reason I liked to wear socks to bed.” A third offered a practical tip: “It works! I put socks on for about 15 minutes when I first get into bed, then take them off when I finish reading and put the lights out.”

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However, there were several others who didn’t agree. A user called it “an easy, natural way to wake up in the middle of the night because you’re so hot.” Another also added, “I wake up with sweaty feet.” Others felt the same.

FAQs on wearing socks to bed:

1. Is it okay to wear socks while sleeping?
Yes, it’s safe and can even improve comfort and sleep quality for many people.

2. Why do some people wear socks to bed?
Socks help keep feet warm, which can promote better blood circulation and faster sleep onset.

3. Can wearing socks at night improve sleep?
Yes, warm feet signal your body that it’s time to sleep, helping you fall asleep faster.

4. What kind of socks are best for sleeping?
Soft, breathable materials like cotton, bamboo, or wool are most comfortable.

5. Are there any downsides to sleeping with socks?
If socks are too tight or make your feet sweat, they can cause discomfort or affect circulation.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.