Teen boy sound asleep

5-4-3-2-1 Sleep Technique

September 13, 2020

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Sometimes our thoughts run wild at night and end up keeping us up longer. A good nights sleep has been proven to help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Try putting the phone down and practicing the 5-4-3-2-1 sleep method to fall asleep quicker.

Why does this work?

You are practicing to quiet your mind. By focusing on specific things you are not allowing your thoughts or emotions to take over. You are also working on being present, in the moment, for yourself. By doing both and relaxing your physical self you’re paving a path for a peaceful night’s rest.

How it works:

  1. Get comfy! Lay in bed and grab your favorite blanket to help relax your body.
  2. Take a look around the room – what are 5 things you can see around you? (i.e your dog sleeping on the floor, your tv, your school books on your desk)
  3. Now find 4 things that you can physically feel touching you (i.e your pillow, a blanket, your cat’s breath)
  4. What are 3 things you can hear? (i.e the humming of a fan, people outside talking, cars passing by)
  5. Notice 2 things that you can smell.
  6. What is one thing you can taste?

Categories: Self-Care Resources

2023-03-30T10:02:53-04:00

Need help? Call or text the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 OR text ‘4HOPE’ to 741-741

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