CNET’s sleep and wellness experts have been testing sleep-related products, technology, trends and hacks for a long time. Whether it’s mattresses, sleepy mocktails or wearing sleep socks or mouth tape to bed, we’ve pretty much tried it all. And if there’s a new sleep trend circling online, you can bet we’ll give it a go.
Our experts have discovered unique ways to improve their sleep quality — and they might surprise you. From calming visualizations to toe spacers, here are some unexpected methods CNET’s sleep and wellness experts use to fall asleep.
Jessica Rendall, wellness writer
Breathing exercises are a great way to reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. Jessica’s method is simple — she inhales deeply through her nose for about four seconds, then slowly exhales through her mouth.
This is similar to the popular 4-7-8 breathing technique developed by Dr. Andrew Weil. In this exercise, you inhale through your nose for a count of four, hold your breath for seven seconds and exhale through your mouth for eight seconds. It’s a simple way to lessen your body’s stress response to stimuli from the day and enter a more relaxed, sleepy state of mind.
Her second method of falling asleep involves visualizations. Specifically, Jessica imagines herself skiing, driving or flying.