Falling asleep on planes can be a major struggle. Whether it is anxiety or environmental factors such as an uncomfortable middle seat, turbulence, annoying passengers, or loud noises, it is really hard to relax and drift off when travelling in the air. However, there is a simple sleep technique that might completely change your experience and have you in a deep sleep in under five minutes.

According to sleep experts at Bed Sava, there’s a tried-and-true method used by military personnel to fall asleep quickly, even when in uncomfortable and noisy environments. It’s known as the military sleep method, and with a few small tweaks, experts say it can work on your next long-haul flight.

How it works

According to the sleep expert, this technique was originally developed during World War II and included in a U.S. military manual. It was designed to help fighter pilots fall asleep quickly, even within combat zones and uncomfortable positions.

This method can also work for those who struggle to fall asleep on flights. “Most people on planes stay tense without realising it — shoulders hunched, jaw clenched, legs crossed. This method focuses on deliberately releasing that tension. Once your body relaxes, the mind follows,” said the professional.

The military method takes about two minutes to complete, with the final 10 seconds being when most people actually drift off. With regular practice, some manage to fall asleep in as little as 60 seconds.

How to do it

1. Relax your face by letting your forehead, jaw, cheeks, and tongue go loose.
2. Drop your shoulders and let them sink down as low as possible.
3. Exhale and relax your chest whilst letting the air out slowly.
4. Relax your legs, starting with your thighs, then let your calves and feet go limp.
5. Clear your mind for 10 seconds, and if thoughts creep in, picture a calm setting.
6. Repeat silently to yourself: “Don’t think… don’t think…” for around 10 seconds.

Additional sleep tips

The sleep experts also recommend travellers avoid caffeine before their flight, even for early departures, to help their bodies relax more easily. They should also bring a neck pillow to support their head and reduce muscle strain during the flight.

An eye mask and earplugs can help block out cabin distractions, making it easier to rest, and travellers should choose loose, comfortable clothing to stay relaxed. The optimal time to try this approach is just after takeoff or following the meal service, when the cabin is typically quieter.

Does it work?

The sleep technique gained widespread popularity online, especially on TikTok and Reddit. However, on Reddit, one person said it didn’t work for them, and asked, “I’ve tried it. It didn’t seem to work. Has anyone here tried it and had it work?”

Someone else replied, “Maybe you just need more practice with it. I was in the military, and it always worked for me. But only if I wanted to sleep. My ADHD even makes me procrastinate in getting good sleep.”

Another user who tested out the method shared: “Yes it works wonders for me took about a month of doing it every night for me to train myself to do it, I fall asleep in around two minutes. Saying ‘don’t think’ in my head kinda created the opposite affect so I made up my own phrase otherwise it’s great! Consistency is key.”