The Art of Napping

I come from a family of nappers. My mom always took "20 minute power naps," my dad took a nap every afternoon when he arrived home from work (he had to be at work at 5am so he was tired!). Every Sunday after church my siblings and I would all sleep for hours.

I go in and out of "nap phases." Sometimes in my life, I've felt too guilty to nap. Right now I don't. Therefore, I am taking one almost everyday, these days. And I love it. There is nothing quite as exciting as anticipating your nap. Then, when the moment finally arrives, and the stars have aligned, you curl up and, smiling, drift off to sleep.

So, let's get down to the "nitty-gritty."

To have a wonderful napping experience, there are a few essential things that must take place.

1. Have a delicious snack just prior to nap time. It is easier to fall asleep when you feel happily full of something yummy.






2. Make sure that all children are engaged in an activity that will keep their attention for a long period of time.

I usually nap for about 45 minutes to an hour. I always nap during Macey's nap because she can't quite be left unattended yet. Another trick that works for me is to not let my children watch very much T.V. most of the time. That way, when I really need them occupied, I can use the T.V. and they become zombies who can't tear their eyes away from the screen and therefore, will not bother me for ANY reason.

Another trick is bribery. Sometimes I tell them that if they let me sleep for 45 minutes without bothering me (unless there is a fire or something) then they will get a special treat when I wake up. This works well for us.




3. Use a face mask to block out light.

I tend to think too much when there is light. My curtains don't block it out enough, so I use this handy little mask. It tricks my brain into thinking it is nighttime.




4. The knee pillow. For ultimate comfort, place a cushy pillow between both knees. I can't sleep without my knee pillow.






5. Use a light weight blanket. And NEVER get under your covers.

If you get under your covers you will never get out. It is just too cozy. It is also just too sweaty. People tend to sweat more during daylight hours. Your nap will NOT be as enjoyable if you wake up sweaty and hot. A baby blanket works perfectly because it gives enough warmth, but not too much.







6. Use a noise machine.

This small electronic will only cost you a few dollars but will greatly add to your napping enjoyment. The one I use imitates the sound of a calming wind. It allows my brain to focus on a low hum and tune out any other background noise (like perhaps screaming children).








7. Last but not least, as you are falling asleep, think of something fun to do, or eat, after your nap. This will help you to get up when the alarm goes off.

Remember, you mustn't sleep for too long during the day. Naps are meant to rejuvenate you, not to make you groggy or throw off your nighttime sleep schedule.

For additional napping information, or napping questions, please contact our local expert, my friend, Celia.

Also, if you have any additional napping tips to share, please do so. I may not have covered everything in this post.





******