Premananda Maharaj has recently gone viral after a discussion on why people struggle with sleep and which lifestyle gaps may be behind their insomnia. In a widely shared interaction, he first advised consulting a doctor for persistent sleeplessness, then highlighted that nutrient deficiencies and mental unrest can disturb the mind and block deep rest. Alongside spiritual discipline, modern sleep science points to quick relaxation techniques and specific vitamins and minerals that support falling asleep faster.​

Why Premananda Maharaj talks about sleep

In a recent NDTV Hindi piece, a devotee asked Premananda Maharaj why he could not sleep at night and whether a vitamin deficiency was responsible. Maharaj replied that if one is doing bhajan and remains awake in devotion, it is auspicious—but if sleeplessness persists generally, then it is wise to consult a doctor and look for underlying health or lifestyle causes.​

The article then explains that stress and lack of certain nutrients can both lead to disturbed or broken sleep. This framing respects Maharaj’s spiritual guidance while bringing in medical and nutritional research on vitamins, minerals, and sleep quality for everyday readers.​

One‑minute fall‑asleep idea: what actually helps

Clips circulating under titles like “1 minute mein neend lane ka tarika” often point to quick calming techniques rather than literal instant sleep. Modern sleep experts commonly recommend controlled breathing methods such as the 4‑7‑8 technique, which can reduce anxiety and trigger the parasympathetic “rest and digest” response, helping many people drift off faster.​​

In the 4‑7‑8 method, you inhale through the nose for 4 counts, hold your breath for 7 counts, then exhale through the mouth for 8 counts, repeating a few cycles while lying comfortably. Studies and expert commentary suggest slow breathing like this can lower heart rate, calm the nervous system, and shift the brain into a state more favourable for sleep, even if it does not guarantee sleep within exactly one minute.​​

How to try a “one‑minute” calming routine

• Lie on your back or side in a comfortable position with lights dim.
• Inhale gently through your nose for a slow count of 4, without overfilling your lungs.​​
• Hold your breath for a calm count of 7, keeping your body relaxed.
• Exhale through pursed lips for a count of 8, making a soft whooshing sound.​​
• Repeat 4 cycles; with practice, many notice their body loosening and thoughts slowing within 1–2 minutes.​

Vitamins and minerals linked with sleeplessness

The NDTV article connected to Premananda Maharaj’s discussion lists several vitamins and minerals whose deficiency can worsen insomnia or poor‑quality sleep. While this is general information and not a substitute for medical advice, it aligns with broader research highlighting the role of micronutrients in mood and sleep regulation.​

Key nutrients mentioned include:

• Vitamin D
• Omega‑3 fatty acids
• Selenium
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin B6​

Each plays a different role in brain chemistry, hormone production, or stress control, and low levels can leave you tired yet unable to sleep deeply.

Vitamin D: the “sunshine vitamin”

Vitamin D is known for bone health but also influences sleep quality and circadian rhythm. NDTV cites research showing that people with vitamin D deficiency have a higher risk of insomnia and short sleep duration, and may feel tired during the day yet still sleep poorly at night.​

Because vitamin D is primarily synthesised in the skin under sunlight, lack of sun exposure and limited dietary sources can leave many people deficient. Getting sensible morning sun and including fortified foods can help, but exact supplementation needs should be discussed with a doctor.​

Omega‑3 fatty acids

Omega‑3 fatty acids help balance stress hormones and stabilise blood pressure, which supports a calmer mental state and smoother sleep cycles. NDTV notes that people who supplement omega‑3 have been observed to sleep roughly an hour longer per night on average in some studies, suggesting an impact on sleep duration and continuity.​

Their effect may relate to anti‑inflammatory action and support for brain cell membranes, which in turn influence neurotransmitters involved in sleep and mood. In practical terms, omega‑3 intake is often low in typical vegetarian diets, making conscious food choices important.​

Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral involved in antioxidant defences and regulation of the sleep–wake cycle. According to the NDTV report, selenium deficiency is more common in vegetarian or vegan individuals and has been linked with irregular sleep patterns.​

Adequate selenium intake has been associated with improvements in sleep regularity in some observational data. Since both deficiency and excess can be harmful, it is better to focus on food sources and professional advice instead of self‑dosing high supplements.​

Vitamin C

Vitamin C supports immunity but also affects mood regulation and fatigue levels. NDTV mentions that low vitamin C is associated with tiredness, joint pain, irritability, and poorer sleep, while supplementation in deficient individuals has improved perceived sleep quality in studies.​

As a water‑soluble vitamin, it must be obtained regularly through diet. Because it also acts as an antioxidant, it may buffer some of the oxidative stress that disrupts normal sleep physiology.​

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is crucial for synthesising neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin, both central to sleep regulation and dream patterns. NDTV notes that deficiency can reduce the body’s production of these “sleep hormones,” leading to more disturbed nights and lighter, less restful sleep.​

People who get enough B6 from food tend to report deeper, more refreshing rest and more vivid but manageable dreams. As with other B‑vitamins, needs rise in periods of stress and high carbohydrate intake, making diet quality important.​

What to eat for good sleep

Based on the NDTV guidance and general nutrition research, a sleep‑friendly diet focuses on whole foods that supply magnesium, omega‑3, key vitamins, and stable energy. Heavy, very spicy, or sugary late‑night meals can worsen reflux and trigger wakefulness, so timing and portion size matter almost as much as nutrient content.​

Foods highlighted for specific nutrients

• Omega‑3 sources: flaxseeds, walnuts, fortified eggs for vegetarians; fatty fish (like tuna or similar) for non‑vegetarians.​
• Selenium sources: Brazil nuts and cremini mushrooms on a vegetarian diet; shellfish such as oysters, shrimp, and tuna for non‑vegetarians.​
• Vitamin C sources: citrus fruits (lemon, orange), tomatoes, broccoli and other colourful vegetables.​
• Vitamin B6 sources: bananas, chickpeas (chana), sunflower seeds, and fish.​

In addition, broader sleep advice emphasises magnesium‑rich foods like nuts, seeds, whole grains, legumes, and leafy greens, since magnesium participates in more than 300 enzymatic reactions and supports muscle relaxation and nervous system balance.​

Meal‑timing tips

• Finish heavy dinner 2–3 hours before bed to reduce indigestion and reflux.​
• If hungry later, choose a light snack like a banana or small handful of nuts instead of oily or spicy food.​
• Avoid strong tea, coffee, or large sugary desserts close to bedtime, as caffeine and sugar both disrupt sleep.​

Simple daily habits for better sleep

Premananda Maharaj’s broader sleep guidance in other talks emphasises a disciplined routine—sleeping by around 10 pm and waking near 6 am to align with natural rhythms. Modern sleep hygiene advice also supports consistent bed‑wake times to stabilise the internal body clock (circadian rhythm) and make falling asleep easier over time.​

Other evidence‑based habits include:

• Limiting screen exposure and bright blue light in the hour before bed to allow melatonin release.​
• Using relaxation methods like 4‑7‑8 breathing and progressive muscle relaxation instead of scrolling social media when restless.​
• Keeping the bedroom dark, quiet, and cool, which improves sleep depth and continuity for many people.​

Together with adequate nutrients, these behaviours create conditions in which a “one‑minute” practice is more likely to work because your body is already primed for rest.

5 FAQs about Premananda Maharaj’s 1‑minute sleep idea

1. Did Premananda Maharaj really give a 1‑minute sleep trick?
NDTV’s article describes a devotee asking about sleeplessness and vitamin deficiency, with Premananda Maharaj advising medical consultation and noting that several nutrient gaps can disturb sleep. Viral titles about “1 minute mein neend lane ka tarika” usually bridge his emphasis on disciplined routine with modern quick relaxation methods, rather than a literal guaranteed one‑minute knockout.​

2. Which vitamin deficiency is most linked to sleeplessness in this context?
The NDTV piece associated insomnia risk mainly with deficiencies of vitamin D, omega‑3 fatty acids, selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Lacking these can leave the mind agitated, reduce melatonin and serotonin production, and fragment the sleep cycle, making it harder to fall and stay asleep.​

3. What should I eat for better sleep according to this guidance?
For sleep support, the article recommends including flaxseeds, walnuts, and fortified eggs for omega‑3; Brazil nuts and cremini mushrooms for selenium; citrus fruits, tomatoes, and broccoli for vitamin C; plus bananas, chickpeas, sunflower seeds, and fish for vitamin B6. Combined with a generally balanced diet and early, lighter dinners, these foods may improve sleep quality over time.​

4. How can I practically try to fall asleep in about a minute?
While no technique guarantees exactly 1‑minute sleep, the 4‑7‑8 breathing method is widely suggested to help many people relax quickly. Lying in bed, inhale for 4 counts, hold for 7, and exhale for 8, repeating several cycles; this slows heart rate, reduces sympathetic arousal, and can make it easier to drift off when combined with a calm environment.​​

5. Should I take vitamin supplements on my own if I can’t sleep?
Health articles, including the NDTV feature, clearly caution that such information is general and not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you suspect deficiency or chronic insomnia, the safer path is to see a doctor, get appropriate tests if needed, and follow personalised guidance on diet, lifestyle, and any supplements rather than self‑medicating.​

Conclusion and call to action

Premananda Maharaj’s reflections on sleep remind listeners that spiritual practice, disciplined routine, and respect for the body’s needs all contribute to genuine rest. Modern research adds that simple tools like 4‑7‑8 breathing, consistent bedtimes, and adequate intake of vitamin D, omega‑3, selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 can significantly improve how quickly and how deeply many people sleep.​

If you struggle with sleeplessness, start tonight by dimming screens early, trying a few rounds of slow breathing, and reviewing your daily diet in light of the nutrients discussed here. For persistent problems, combine these lifestyle changes with a consultation from a qualified doctor so you can address underlying issues and move towards calmer nights and clearernights and clearer mornings.