Faking sleep can be a handy skill in certain situations – whether it’s to avoid an awkward conversation, to get some much-needed alone time, or because you just don’t feel like getting out of bed yet. Here are 16 ways to convincingly fake sleep.

1. Close your eyes: This is the most basic requirement for faking sleep. Keep your eyes gently closed, without squeezing them shut too tightly.

2. Control your breathing: Breathe in a slow, rhythmic pattern. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. This simulates the natural breathing rate of someone who is asleep.

3. Keep still: Avoid sudden movements that may give away your ruse. Gradually shift your position if you become uncomfortable but maintain a sense of relaxation.

4. Adopt a natural sleeping position: Lie on your side, back, or stomach – whichever feels most comfortable for you. Use pillows to support your neck and head as you would when actually sleeping.

5. Snore lightly (if applicable): If you’re known to snore occasionally, add a soft snore here and there to make it seem more believable.

6. Stay warm: Being under the covers will not only keep you cozy but also contribute to the illusion that you’re fast asleep.

7. Use earplugs: To block out any noise around you, use earplugs – this ensures that you won’t be startled by sudden sounds and break the illusion.

8. Train yourself to ignore stimuli: Practice ignoring distractions that might cause you to react involuntarily.

9. Mimic REM sleep: Move your eyes gently beneath your closed lids to simulate rapid eye movement sleep, which occurs during dream cycles, but remember not everyone moves their eyes during REM sleep.

10. Release tension in your muscles: Practice progressive muscle relaxation by tensing and then relaxing each muscle group in succession to achieve a more restful pose.

11. Sleep-talk if needed: If you’re known to mumble a few words during your sleep, you can add this detail as well – just make sure it’s quiet and unintelligible.

12. Turn off electronic devices: Screens emit light that can easily give away the fact that you’re still awake.

13. Cover your face partially: Position a blanket or pillow over part of your face to make it harder for others to see whether your eyes are open or closed.

14. Match the sleeping pattern of others: If there are others in the room who are genuinely sleeping, pay attention to their patterns and try to replicate them.

15. Be prepared for early wakings: If someone tries to wake you up, don’t jump out of bed immediately. Gradually “wake up” by yawning, stretching, and opening your eyes slightly before becoming fully alert.

16. Practice makes perfect: The more you practice faking sleep, the better you’ll become at making it look effortless and convincing.

Remember, faking sleep should only be used in situations where it’s truly necessary or harmless. It’s always best to prioritize getting actual rest whenever possible. But with these 16 tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to convincingly fake some Z’s when the situation arises.