Counting Sheep: How Long to Fall Asleep?
For most people, the sweet spot is between 10 and 20 minutes.
For most people, the sweet spot is between 10 and 20 minutes. But if you’re dozing off before you can even start counting sheep or still tossing and turning after 30 minutes, it might be a sign of a deeper sleep issue worth exploring.
What’s Normal?
Healthy adults typically fall asleep within 10 to 20 minutes and get around 7–8 hours of rest each night. This period it takes to fall asleep is known as sleep latency. While the occasional restless night is normal—perhaps due to stress or excitement—if it frequently takes you over 30 minutes to doze off, there might be more going on.
Can’t Fall Asleep?
A too-early bedtime, an inconsistent routine, or even too much sleep during the day can throw your sleep pattern off. Your body has a natural circadian rhythm that dictates when you should sleep, eat, and wake up. Going against this rhythm or trying to sleep when your body isn’t ready can make it tough to fall asleep on time. Establishing good "sleep hygiene” like powering down electronics, limiting caffeine intake, and keeping a regular bedtime can help you drift off more easily.
Falling Asleep Too Fast?
If you’re falling asleep the moment you hit your MVMI pillow every night, it could be a sign of sleep deprivation. While it might seem like a gift, conking out too fast could suggest that you’re not getting enough rest regularly, leading to what's known as "sleep debt."
Tips for Better Sleep
To optimize your sleep, try going to bed at the same time each night, create a distraction-free sleep environment, and cut out caffeine late in the day. If you can't fall asleep after 20 minutes, get up and do something relaxing until you're ready to try again.
When to See a Doctor
If you're struggling to fall asleep or falling asleep too quickly on a regular basis, it may be time to consult a doctor. Try keeping track of your sleep habits in a journal. This "sleep journal" can help you identify patterns or issues that may be interfering with your rest and could help pinpoint patterns and issues to discuss with your doctor.
What We Have Learned
In short, aiming for that 10- to 20-minute sleep window is a good goal, but if you're struggling, don't hesitate to seek help. Healthy sleep is essential to a healthy life!
Scroll down and sign up for our monthly newsletter to learn more.
Dream big, work hard, sleep ambitiously,
Joe Castignani