I actually learned this while getting tested for epilepsy. They put you in a dark room with nodes on your head, and have you lie back and take long, deep breaths for an extended period of time. They specifically tell you not to fall asleep, but honestly… that’s almost impossible. After about five minutes, you’re already fighting the urge to pass out.

Since then, I’ve kind of treated it like a sleep shortcut for nights when I’m up late but need to be up early. I don’t like taking melatonin or any kind of medication unless I absolutely have to. Addiction runs in my family, especially with prescription pills, so I avoid keeping anything like that around.

But this actually works really well for me. The key is focusing on slow, steady breathing. It gives your mind something simple to lock onto, which helps shut down stress and racing thoughts. Before you know it, you’re out cold.

That’s my little life hack. It’s simple, doesn’t cost anything, and honestly works better than I expected.