Hey Lykkers! Can't Fall Asleep? Here's a Quick Fix! Have you ever felt completely exhausted, lying in bed tossing and turning, but sleep just won't come? We've all been there! But guess what?
According to American sleep experts, something as simple as wearing socks to bed can help you fall asleep faster by lowering your core body temperature. It may sound strange, but it works! Let's dive into why this little trick might be your ticket to better sleep.
Our body temperature naturally changes throughout the day. During the day, an adult's core body temperature ranges between 36.1°C to 37.2°C, with an average of around 37°C. For kids under 10, the temperature may be slightly lower. But as night approaches, the body starts cooling down by 1 to 2°C to prepare for sleep.
When you put on socks before bed, it helps warm your feet. This warmth makes the blood vessels in your feet expand (a process called vasodilation), allowing heat to escape from your body more easily. As a result, your core body temperature drops, signaling your brain that it's time to sleep. This small change can actually help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep.
A 2018 study discovered that young men who wore socks to bed fell asleep almost 8 minutes faster than those who didn't. They also slept 32 minutes longer and woke up fewer times during the night. So, if you're struggling to doze off, giving socks a try might make a noticeable difference.
Not necessarily! Dr. Jennifer Mundt, an associate professor of family and preventive medicine at the University of Utah, points out that comfort levels vary from person to person. Some people may feel too warm when they wear socks to bed. If you put on socks and find your feet feeling uncomfortably hot, just take them off. Your body knows best—so listen to it and find what works for you!
If you're going to try this trick, make sure to pick the right socks. Choose breathable, soft fabrics like cotton or wool. Avoid socks that are too tight or thick, as they can make your feet sweaty and uncomfortable. Loose, cozy socks work best to keep your feet warm without overheating.
Besides wearing socks, here are a few other things you can do to improve your sleep:
Maintain a regular sleep schedule – Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
Limit screen time before bed – Blue light from phones and tablets can interfere with your body's natural sleep signals.
Keep your room cool and dark – A cooler environment helps maintain the drop in core body temperature needed for sleep.
If you've been struggling to fall asleep, why not give this simple trick a try? Grab a comfy pair of socks and see if it makes a difference. Lykkers, have you ever tried wearing socks to bed? Did it help you sleep better? Let us know your experience! You might just discover your new go-to sleep hack!