Keeping Your Eyes Open Can Help You Fall Asleep Faster. Here’s Why.
Has anyone ever told you to try keeping your eyes open when you’re desperately trying to fall asleep? It sounds counterintuitive, right? After all, from childhood, most of us are told to close our eyes to drift off to sleep. But, have you ever considered simply keeping your eyes open to fall asleep? Yes, you heard it right!
Typically, you’d think shutting your eyes is the first step to a good night’s rest. And you’d be right—most of the time. However, what might surprise you is that the opposite action, keeping your eyes open, can also do the trick under the right conditions. It’s all about the reverse psychology of sleep!
What Happens When You Try to Keep Your Eyes Open?
The secret lies in the natural response of your body and mind when you try to force yourself to stay awake. This phenomenon, known as the “paradoxical intention,” involves trying to stay awake as a method to reduce performance anxiety about falling asleep. Yes, it’s true! This method is often used in cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) to treat sleep anxiety and insomnia.
How Does Paradoxical Intention Work?
When you attempt to keep your eyes open, telling yourself, “I will not sleep,” the brain doesn’t quite cooperate with this directive. It’s like telling a child not to think of a pink elephant—suddenly, that’s all they can think about! By attempting to stay awake and focusing on keeping your eyes open, you might actually trick your brain into feeling sleepy. This can reduce the anxiety and stress related to trying to fall asleep, which in itself can be a major barrier to sleep.
The Role of Reverse Psychology
The mind is a complex entity, and sometimes, reverse psychology is the best way to deal with its quirks. Keeping your eyes open to fall asleep uses this concept by engaging the mind in a way that eases it into sleepiness rather than forcing it to shut down immediately. It’s an unexpected approach that might just lead you to quicker, more restful sleep, especially if you’re someone who often lies awake, burdened by the stress of trying to sleep.
Here’s another way to think about it. Keeping your eyes open can tire them out. Just like any other part of your body, your eyes need rest after prolonged periods of use. Ever noticed how your eyes feel heavy after staring at a screen for too long? That’s your cue. Your eyes getting tired can signal your brain that it’s time to rest, leading you to fall asleep naturally.
How to Keep Your Eyes Open to Fall Sleep Faster
To give this method a shot, make sure you’re already in bed and ready to sleep. Keep your room dimly lit to avoid stimulating your eyes too much. Now, keep your eyes open and focus on something stationary. Don’t force your gaze; rather, let your eyes rest gently on a point.
Initially, you might feel a bit silly or even wide awake, but soon, your eyes will start to droop. You’ll notice them wanting to close, not out of effort, but from a natural pull towards sleep.
Give it time. The first few times, it might feel strange, but as your eyes grow tired, your body will follow suit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can everyone use the technique of keeping their eyes open to fall asleep?
While many might find it helpful, it’s not suitable for everyone. Individuals with specific sleep disorders or anxiety might find that other methods work better for them.
2. Are there any risks to trying to fall asleep with your eyes open?
There are no significant risks associated with this method, but it might lead to eye dryness or irritation if done excessively. It’s best to use it as a short-term strategy while implementing other long-term sleep hygiene practices.
3. How often should I use this technique?
Use it as needed, but it’s crucial to focus on developing good overall sleep habits for the best results. If sleep issues persist, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.
