Jill Clardy via Compfight
Another Guest Post from PowerNap:
There will definitely be times in life when exhaustion gets the best of you. Extremely stressful circumstances can make for intense days and weeks, and can leave individuals sleepless and tired. While there will be periodic times of life where this occurs, it should not be a constant feeling. Far too many people have overbooked their schedules in such a way that they no longer know what it means to feel rested. When work becomes hectic, children become cranky, and all other scheduled events seem to be looming overhead, the first thing that is usually taken away is sleep. Those who don’t get enough sleep are easily irritated, more likely to get sick, have trouble maintaining a healthy weight, and overall do not feel well.
Lack of sleep can also lead to a decrease in brain function and a lack of productivity. Isn’t it interesting that in efforts to get everything done on our daily to-do lists we first cut out sleep, and in turn make ourselves less productive? While you may not have the ability to lighten your load, or add more hours to your day, you can learn how to power nap.
When you learn how to power nap you are able to recharge your day, making life seem manageable. You will have the ability to get through all that you need to without feeling incredibly groggy, and extremely overworked. These tips will teach you how to power nap like a pro. The first thing that you must realize when you are learning how to power nap is that a power nap is titled the way it is because it is supposed to be quick and rejuvenating. It is just long enough to allow your body to rest and recharge. It is not a three hour session of shut-eye that will only leave you feeling like you never want to get up again. Power naps should be between fifteen and twenty minutes max. Any longer than that and you will be entering into deep sleep cycles that will be very hard to wake from. The best thing to do when taking a power nap is to find a quiet and calm place where you will not be interrupted. If you are home this might be curled up on your favorite chair, or lying down on your bed.
If you are at work you may be able to shut your office door and turn the lights off, or go out into your car. Be sure to rid yourself of anything that may distract you. Turn off the television, power down your computer, and turn off your cell phone. You want this short nap to be solely dedicated to you. Find a position that is comfortable and try as hard as you can to clear your mind. Remember that everything that you may feel like you have to do in this short span of time will still be there in twenty minutes. Take deep, relaxing breaths and allow yourself to relax. Even if you aren’t able to fall completely asleep, this quiet time will help you to feel so much better. It may be smart to set an alarm so you don’t oversleep. Once it is time to wake up, try to get right up.
Turn on lights and walk around or do some jumping jacks to get your body going again. Do a few quick stretches to help you to wake up. You will be amazed at how this quick, short nap will refresh you and help you to make it through the rest of your day. Don’t go through life feeling tired and overworked.
Learn how to power nap and you will feel like a new person.
