Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Dodow Sleep Aid Device

$59.90

Dodow is a metronome with a light system that teaches you how to fall asleep naturally, without taking any medicine. It helps you fall asleep faster by focusing on the rhythmic light pattern.

Our take

An innovative tool for a drug-free sleep solution.

So, I got my hands on this Dodow Sleep Aid Device, and let me tell you, it's a little gadget that projects a soft blue light onto your ceiling. The light pulses in and out, and the idea is you match your breathing to it, which is supposed to help you fall asleep faster. At first glance, it seems a bit gimmicky, like one of those things you buy in a late-night panic after scrolling through endless sleep tips online. But hey, if insomnia's got you counting sheep till the cows come home, it might be worth a shot. Just know it's not some magical cure-all.

Now, here's the thing: it’s super simple to use, which is a big plus. You just tap the top of the device, and boom, you're in business. No tangled wires or confusing settings. It runs on batteries, which means you can plop it anywhere without worrying about finding a free outlet. The simplicity is kind of refreshing in a world full of tech overload. On the flip side, if you're someone who needs absolute darkness to sleep, that pulsing light, no matter how soft, might still bug you. It's not for everyone, especially light sleepers who wake up at the slightest disturbance.

Speaking of the light, it's supposed to help you slow your breathing down to around six breaths per minute, which is apparently the sweet spot for relaxation. In theory, it makes sense: focusing on your breath can calm your mind and help you drift off. I tried it out, and while it didn’t knock me out cold, I did find it kinda soothing. It’s like having a nightlight with a purpose, but don’t expect it to work wonders if you’re wide awake and stressed about tomorrow's to-do list.

What’s nice is that it automatically turns off after 8 or 20 minutes, depending on how long you want to use it. So, no need to worry about it running all night and draining the batteries. However, if you're one of those folks who might need longer to settle down, you might find yourself tapping it back on more than once, which can get a bit annoying. Honestly, it’s a bit of trial and error to see if it gels with your sleep routine.

Overall, the Dodow isn't going to replace a comfy bed or a quiet room, but it could be a handy tool in your sleep arsenal. It’s reasonably priced, and if it even slightly improves your sleep, it’s probably worth the investment. Just keep your expectations realistic—think of it as a sleep aid, not a sleep miracle. If you’re curious about anything that might help you catch some Z’s, it’s worth giving a try. Worst case, it’s a neat little gadget to show off or pass on if it doesn’t do the trick for you.

$19/user/month

$69 per 6 months

$25/user/month

Free with premium options