Does Counting Sheep Really Help You Fall Asleep?

Everyone has experienced sleep trouble at some point. Sleep deprivation affects people of all ages and backgrounds, from excited kids to stressed-out adults.

One old-school trick you might have heard from your parents or grandparents was to count sheep. The trope is well-established, but does it have any merit? Or should you stick with other options, like downloading an app for sleep coaching? Read on to find out!

The Reality of Counting Sheep

We hate to break it to you, but counting sheep is probably not a good idea!

One study at Oxford University in 2001 shows that counting sheep could be counterproductive to your sleep goals. In this study, researchers separated 41 insomniacs into three groups. The first was tasked with thinking of tranquil scenes and calming settings.

The researchers asked the second group to do what they usually would when going to bed. Then, they requested that the third group count sheep in their heads.

The results were pretty surprising. That old-school trick of counting sheep required more mental energy. The participants had to stay engaged in what they were doing. Rather than emptying their mind and trying to simulate sleep, they were actively completing a task!

On the other hand, the first group imagining calming scenes went to sleep much faster. They fell asleep around 20 minutes more quickly than those simply doing their usual routine. Those asked to count sheep? They took even longer! They fell last, falling asleep long after the first two groups!

Researchers believe the mental stimulation required to count sheep isn't ideal for relaxation. Despite the centuries of tropes, it's not a technique worth trying.

Alternatives

If you're having trouble dozing off, you can download an app for sleep coaching. A sleep coach can help you get to the root cause of your sleepless nights. Then, they can provide valuable tips and recommendations that make a difference.

Getting a whole night of rest is paramount. Don't let yourself toss and turn to the point of chronic insomnia. Take realistic steps and see how you can make improvements.

Read a similar article about “what is REM sleep” here at this page.