Doctor reveals NASA-inspired sleep hack that's an 'essential tool for recovery'
A sleep technique used by astronauts in space is said to be just as useful down on Earth.
Sleep is a vital part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with most experts saying that adults should be aiming for seven to nine hours of shut-eye each night.
But this isn't the easiest of feats for those who suffer with insomnia, are feeling unwell, or for those who are generally just bad sleepers.
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One thing that might get stop you from getting a good night's rest is if you're a serial toilet-goer in the night.
As to what a 'normal' amount of times is to go and pee, experts suggest that it can be anywhere between one to four times, and that age plays a factor in how often we need to relieve ourselves.
Away from your toilet habits, there's a sleep technique thought up by those at NASA to help astronauts sleep — and it doesn't just apply to people who are up in space.
The hack is known as 'zero gravity', and it was created to help with the immense pressures astronauts face on their body.
"Zero-gravity is a neutral position that’s achieved by lying flat on your back and raising both your head and feet slightly above your heart level, so the spine is neutrally aligned — therefore relieving pressure on your body," sleep experts at Opera Beds previously told Men's Health.
The sleeping technique can prove particularly useful for those trying to get some rest when feeling unwell.
Dr Tim Mercer, the NHS GP Partner & GP Trainer with Opera Beds, explained to The Express: "Sleep is essential for recovery when battling the flu. Quality rest allows your body to allocate energy towards immune function, accelerating the fight against the virus.
"During sleep, your body produces cytokines — proteins that combat inflammation and infection — making it an essential tool for recovery."
He went on: "Sleeping with flu symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, and fever can feel impossible, but there are simple methods you can follow to promote a better night's sleep."
The main way the 'zero gravity' technique can help those with the flu sleep is because having your head raised allows the airways to open up and take in more oxygen while you sleep.
Having your head slightly raised also decreases your chances of snoring, while having your knees and head above heart level improves circulation and can reduce swelling.
Sweet dreams!
Niamh Shackleton