The Simple Sleep Hack You Have to Try (its from the CIA & it actually works)

Anyone else lying awake for hours in the middle of the night, wondering why your brain is suddenly full of to-dos, worries, or random memories from 2008?

As a mom of three and a business owner, I get it. And if you feel seen right now — you’re definitely not alone.

But recently, I stumbled across a sleep hack that reportedly comes from CIA training — and I was skeptical.

Turns out? It actually works. Better than anything I’ve tried.

I've Tried Everything to Sleep Better

If there’s a hack out there to help you:

• Fall asleep faster

• Stay asleep longer

• And fall back asleep when you wake up in the middle of the night...

…I’ve probably tried it.

Breathing techniques. Nervous system regulation tools. Sleep supplements.
Aromatherapy. Meditation. No caffeine after 1p. Carbs at dinner. Walks after dinner for blood sugar regulation.

You get the idea.

I even used to keep a notebook and pen by my bed to write down anything my brain “helpfully” remembered at 2:00 a.m., just to clear space for sleep.

So when I found this one simple technique online I was skeptical.

Really skeptical.

But then I tried it. And friend, I was shocked by how well it worked.

The Simple Sleep Hack That Actually Works

Ready for it?

This trick reportedly comes from military and intelligence training, where falling asleep quickly (and anywhere) can be a mission - critical skill. It’s designed to calm your nervous system and give your brain a simple focus to make it happen.

Here’s what to do the next time you lay down for sleep or you wake up tossing and turning in the middle of the night:

1. Lay down comfortably in bed.

2. Take five slow, deep breaths — in through your nose, out through your nose.

3. Begin counting slowly from 1 to 20 in your head.
   

That’s it. That’s the whole hack.

If you make it to 20, you’ll probably fall asleep shortly after.
But honestly? I usually don’t make it that far.

Why This Works

While I’m not a sleep scientist, I can say this:

It works because it helps shift your nervous system out of stress and into a more relaxed, parasympathetic state. 

It gives your brain something gentle and repetitive to focus on - without inviting more mental chatter or planning mode.

It’s also simple so no need to overthink it. 

Try It Tonight

Seriously, give it a try tonight.
It takes less than 60 seconds and costs you nothing.

I found this in an internet scroll hole two nights ago, and I’ve used it every night since. My sleep has completely changed in just that time. 

I’m no longer dreading laying down to sleep each night.

And I hope it helps you, too.

If you try it, I’d love to hear how it goes for you.

Hey, I’m Caitlin! I’m a certified health coach and life coach and I’m here to bring sustainable change into your day so that you have the time and energy you need for the things that matter most. 

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