Apparently, after six solid weeks of practice this will work for 96% of people who try the technique.
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Does the military sleep method work?
It’s difficult to prove for certain as this would require studies that look specifically at the military sleep method, but anecdotally, many people have vouched for its effectiveness. And having done the rounds on TikTok, many enthusiastically recommend it.
One TikTok commenter said: “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”, while another user said: “My doctor taught me this technique with slight variations when I had insomnia due to PTSD. Trust me it works 100% once you get it down.”
Twitter user @Jontafkasi even said it may have cured his four decades of insomnia. “Hmm, might be a bit early to get excited but after 40 odd years of insomnia, I got a half decent sleep last night.. I’ll be impressed (and a little annoyed) if it was that simple. Military method.”
He followed up explaining: “I never have trouble going to sleep but usually wake up in the early hours and that’s when I struggle. Military method. Starting from the top, relax your whole body slowly and carefully, then clear your mind for a while (this is the hard bit) , then think of a peaceful scene. “
He concluded: “Normally at that stage I would toss and turn for ages but this technique stopped all that and allowed me to get back to sleep quite quickly. It’s taken a few weeks of practice but touch wood, seems to be helping.”
Given it only takes two minutes each night, we’ll be trying this pronto.
Why is the military sleep method popular?
Sleep deprivation, or insufficient sleep is a problem for many of us. Research last year found that 14% (1 in 7) Brits, survive on under five hours of sleep a night which is considered dangerously low. And as well as affecting our concentration and mood, lack of sleep can lead to mental health problems, cardiac problems, dementia and diabetes, so it makes sense that we’re interested in methods and techniques that can help to improve our sleep quality and quantity.
Given the small amount of time the military sleep method takes, and the anecdotal success rate it boasts, it’s unsurprising that its become so popular.
When to see your GP for insomnia
Some sleep methods may not work for everyone. According to the NHS, you should see your GP if:
- changing your sleeping habits has not worked
- you have had trouble sleeping for months
- your insomnia is affecting your daily life in a way that makes it hard for you to cope.