Qualia Life

Andrew Huberman shares a simple, science-backed trick to fall asleep faster when your mind races or you can't stop noticing your body position: Close your eyes and do slow, deliberate eye movements to shut down proprioception (body awareness) and signal your brain it's time to transition into sleep. Try this tonight (takes ~1–2 minutes): - Slowly move eyes left → right (a few times) - Then counterclockwise circle → clockwise circle Look up → down - Gently attempt to look toward the bridge of your nose (faux cross-eyed) - Finish with a long exhale to slow heart rate Why it works: Eye movements coordinate with your vestibular system & cerebellum to mimic the natural forgetting of body position that happens at sleep onset (similar to slow rocking or boat motion calming the brain). It gives your racing mind something active to focus on instead of "just relax." Huberman: "Many people find it helps them fall asleep quickly—it's not kooky; it's physiology." No apps, no gadgets—just your eyes. Game-changer for insomniacs or restless nights. Try it & report back.