Can’t sleep? Try this simple 10-3-2-1-0 rule for a good night’s rest

A complete and proper sleep is required for better functioning of mind and body. (Image via Vecteezy)
A complete and proper sleep is required for better functioning of mind and body. (Image via Vecteezy)

If you haven't heard or tried this new sleep 10-3-2-1-0 method then you are missing out on the best sleep formula. Good sleep feels like a distant dream for many of us. Turning and twisting every night, counting sheep, or trying to calm a buzzing mind, the battle is real. But hope isn't lost.

Ad

There is a simple routine hailed by experts called the 10-3-2-1-0 formula, designed to help you kiss those sleepless nights goodbye.


Struggling with sleep? Time to try the 10-3-2-1-0 trick

This simple method came into the limelight thanks to Dr. Jess Andrade, who shared it on Instagram. It is about tweaking your daily habits to pave the way for a peaceful slumber. So, let's break it down:

Ad

10 hours: No caffeine

Caffeine keeps you active despite your body needing rest. (Image via Vecteezy)
Caffeine keeps you active despite your body needing rest. (Image via Vecteezy)

Your love for coffee might be true, but it is time for a break, especially 10 hours before bed. Caffeinated drinks linger in your system, keeping you awake. Cutting them off 10 hours before sleep ensures they have exited your system in time for bed.

Ad

3 hours: No food or alcohol

Alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle by slowing down your body's cells. (Image via Vecteezy)
Alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle by slowing down your body's cells. (Image via Vecteezy)

Ever felt that discomfort or acidity just as you lay down? That is late-night snacking or that glass of wine calling. Eating or drinking alcohol close to bedtime can mess with your sleep quality. So, give yourself a three-hour gap between your last meal or drink and bedtime.

Ad

2 hours: No work

Excessive work can restrain your mind from relaxing and getting better sleep (Image via Vecteezy)
Excessive work can restrain your mind from relaxing and getting better sleep (Image via Vecteezy)

Our brains are like high-speed trains during the day, especially at work. It is essential to apply brakes and relax the brain two hours before bed. Put aside work-related tasks and give your mind a much-needed rest.

Ad

1 hour: No screens

Screens can keep your mind hooked and can strain your eyes. (Image via Vecteezy)
Screens can keep your mind hooked and can strain your eyes. (Image via Vecteezy)

Screens are tricky; they trick our brains into thinking it is daylight, delaying sleep. Cutting off screen usage (phones, TVs, computers) an hour before sleep can significantly improve sleep quality. It is tough but it is worth.

Ad

0 times: Hitting snooze

Unable to wake up fresh in the morning and feeling fatigued (Image via Vecteezy)
Unable to wake up fresh in the morning and feeling fatigued (Image via Vecteezy)

Feel like hitting snooze every morning? With 10-3-2-1-0, you won't need to. A restful night means waking up refreshed, ready to tackle the day head-on—no snooze button necessary.

Ad

Why it works

This sleep pattern establishes your body in a proper sleep routine (Image vis Vecteezy)
This sleep pattern establishes your body in a proper sleep routine (Image vis Vecteezy)

The method is steeped in understanding our bodies' natural rhythms and how daily activities interfere with them. Adjusting these habits means aligning more closely with our bodies' sleep-wake cycle, leading to better sleep.

Ad

Considerations

Dr. Andrade reminds us that this method is not one-size-fits-all. Individual health conditions or lifestyles might make it less suitable or require adjustments. It is undoubtedly worth a shot but consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns.


Making it work for you

Adapting your sleep pattern may seem challenging, but consistency yields better results. (Image via Vecteezy)
Adapting your sleep pattern may seem challenging, but consistency yields better results. (Image via Vecteezy)

Implementing the 10-3-2-1-0 rule might seem daunting at first. Yet, even small steps towards it can lead to significant improvements. Starting with reducing caffeine or screen time incrementally can pave the way for better habits and, ultimately, better sleep.

Ad

Final Thoughts

In a world that never seems to sleep, finding your piece of nighttime tranquillity is crucial. The 10-3-2-1-0 method is more than just numbers; it is a guide to reacquainting ourselves with the lost art of restful sleep.

So tonight, as you prepare for bed, consider starting this simple but effective routine. Your sleepless nights might just become a thing of the past, replaced by mornings of feeling refreshed and ready to face the day.

Edited by Ankush Das
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
down arrow icon
More
bell-icon Manage notifications