6 Ways To Fall Asleep Fast

Forget counting sheep! If you’re struggling to drift off, here’s how to catch that all-important shut-eye

- Faye M Smith

Do you often find yourself lying awake, tossing and turning, counting down the hours until it’s time to get up? You’re not alone. Nearly half of us miss out on sleep as a result of worry and our busy lifestyles, according to the Great British Bedtime Report. It’s having a huge impact on our health – from our metabolism to our mood, and it can also be the cause of serious illnesses. Don’t want to pop pills? Try these expert-approved, natural techniques, which could have you drifting off in no time...

1 The breathing meditation

‘Breathing techniques can help release deep emotional blockages,’ says breathing coach Stuart Sandeman, founder of Breathpod. ‘They can give you a stronger connection to self, deeper relaxation and clear any feelings of lack and limitation. This 4-7-8 breathing technique will help to slow the mind so that you can nod off.’ Inhale through the nose for a count of four. Hold breath for a count of seven. Exhale through pursed lips for a count of eight. Repeat four rounds.

2 The relaxing body scan