7 Sleep Doctors Reveal Their Favorite Tricks for Falling Asleep Fast

Sleep doctors toss and turn sometimes—but it’s never for long. That’s because they use scientifically-sound methods to lull themselves into dreamland. Steal their techniques so you can finally get a good night’s rest.

Blow bubbles
It sounds ridiculous, but blowing a few bubbles—like the kind that comes in a plastic bottle that you played with as a kid—right before bed can help you fall asleep faster, says Rachel Marie E. Salas, M.D., a professor of neurology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

It’s like a deep breathing exercise, which helps calm your body and mind, she says. And since it’s such a silly activity, it can also take your mind off of any potential sleep-thwarting thoughts.

Why You Cry When Your Favorite Team Wins

Your eyes are bone dry when you’re hurt or sad. But the night your team took home the title? Waterworks. What’s the deal with that?

For the first time, researchers have looked into this odd “tears of joy” phenomenon. The Yale University study team calls it a “dimorphous display”—meaning your expressions and reactions don’t seem to match up with how you’re feeling. Other examples include smiling when you’re frustrated, or making sad faces or sounds when you see an adorable baby.