The Bizarre Bedtime Ritual That's Taking the Internet by Storm

2. The Claims: What Proponents Say About the Soap Trick

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As the soap trick has become well-known, many assertions on its advantages have surfaced. Advocates of this unique sleep aid cite several benefits from the habit of putting soap in or close by the bed. Though mostly anecdotal and lacking empirical support, these assertions have greatly helped to explain the viral dissemination and ongoing popularity of the movement. The most often expressed claim connected to the soap trick is its supposed capacity to relieve leg cramps. Many consumers claim that following this technique significantly lessens the frequency and intensity of midnight leg cramps. Some even say that reaching for the soap kept next to their bed causes instant relief from continuous cramps. "I used to wake almost every night with painful leg cramps. Since I started putting a bar of soap under my fitted sheet, I haven't had a single cramp. It sounds crazy, but it's been a game-changer for me," 45-year-old office manager Sarah says. Many consumers say their sleep quality has improved generally, beyond leg cramps. They say they feel more rested in the morning, have less nightly awakenings, and go to sleep faster. Some link this to a general state of comfort or relaxation they connect with the presence of the soap. Additionally claimed by supporters is the soap trick's ability to ease restless leg syndrome (RLS) symptoms. Although RLS is a complicated neurological disorder often needing medical therapy, some people with this illness report a decrease in the unpleasant sensations and impulse to move their legs when utilising the soap method. Fascinatingly, some customers credit the aroma of the soap for benefits. Some smells, especially lavender or other soothing scents, they say help create a more peaceful sleeping atmosphere. Drawing links to aromatherapy techniques, some people have especially chosen perfumed soaps for this use. A subset of users say the soap method relieves general aches and pains, especially in the hips, lower back, or foot. They credit the soap for helping them to wake up less tense and uncomfortable. Some supporters say the soap method has helped them cut back on or stop depending on sleep meds. Though any adjustments to prescribed medications should be evaluated with a healthcare physician, they characterise it as a natural, side-effect-free substitute for pharmacological sleep aids. There also exist assertions on the effects of the soap trick on skin disorders. A few people claim improvements in diseases like eczema or dry skin, hypothesising that the soap might be affecting the sleeping environment in ways that help their skin. Teacher John, 38, notes: "Not only has the soap helped with my sleep, but I've noticed my eczema flare-ups have become less frequent since I started this. I don't know how it works, but I'm not complaining!" Some users describe the soap method as a comfortable ritual that helps communicate to their brain that it's time to sleep, therefore attesting to a psychological advantage. They compare it to other sleep hygiene habits and imply that the act of laying the soap becomes a cue for relaxation and sleep preparation. A few supporters say the soap method has relieved moderate sleep apnea or snoring problems. Although these assertions are among the more debatable and least supported, they draw attention to the variety of consequences people attribute to this behaviour. Many consumers do note surprise at the potency of the soap trick. The method's very implausibility seems to add to its attractiveness; many supporters first show doubt but then become excited about expected advantages. The soap method reportedly helps some people have a more regular sleep routine. They say they are more in line with their body's normal sleep-wake cycle and credit their consistent nightly ritual—soap in their bed—for this change. Even fewer individuals say they utilise the soap method to have better dream recall or more enjoyable dreams. These results, which relate to the broad-ranging consequences supporters attribute to this technique, are among the most subjective and challenging to confirm. You should view these assertions with a cautious eye. Many of the claimed advantages most certainly include a major component from the placebo effect. One should not undervalue the influence of suggestion or the need of following a regular sleep routine. Furthermore, the dearth of scientific research especially looking at the soap trick keeps these assertions anecdotal. Still, the sheer volume and diversity of encouraging stories have helped to keep the soap trick rather popular. Many users remain persuaded of the soap trick's efficacy whether the advantages are due to some yet-undiscovered feature of soap, the force of conviction, or just the result of paying greater attention to one's sleep habits. Like any health trend, people should see doctors for ongoing sleep problems and regard alternative therapies like the soap technique as complements to rather than substitutes for accepted medical advice and treatments.