Twitter is crazy about this sleep-inducing technique, here's the science behind it

The 4-7-8 breathing method was developed by an integrative medicine specialist at the University of Arizona in United States, Andrew Weil. He founded it on the premises of ancient meditation and breathing-focused techniques that are guaranteed to beat anxious thoughts that make falling asleep challenging.

"It’s the single best method that I’ve found for dealing with getting back to sleep if you wake up in the middle of the night. It's the regularity of doing this over a period of weeks, months, years that produces the changes that you want," Weil told MedicalNewsToday.

But you don't have to take Weil's word for it. When it comes to the 4-7-8 sleep technique, it is hard to find someone who hasn't reaped the benefits especially relief for anxiety, and in one study, a calm heart rate and blood pressure.

How it works

Get into a comfortable position and focus on relaxing your body
Breathe-in quietly through your nose for four seconds
Hold your breath for seven seconds
Breathe-out through your mouth with a 'whooshing' sound for eight seconds
Repeat the cycle for at least four times

It is as simple as that. However, keep in mind that it may take you longer than 60 seconds to fall asleep the first few times you try the method.

According to Weil, the idea is to get the body and mind accustomed to the method with practice.

Caution

If you suffer from respiratory illness or other ailments that affect your breathing, practice caution by consulting your doctor before trying the 4-7-8 method.