As we focus on the many obligations we gladly undertake in order
to create the lives we want, sleep is often the first activity that we sacrifice.
We're compelled by both external and internal pressures to be productive
during many of our waking hours. While this can lead to great feats of
accomplishment, it also disrupts the body's natural cycles and leaves us
craving rest. Napping represents a pleasurable remedy to this widespread
sleep deprivation. Though judged by many as a pastime of little children or
the lazy, the need for a nap is a trait that all mammals share and an
acceptable part of the day in many countries. It is also a free and effortless
way to improve our health and lift our spirits. A nap is relaxing and can
improve our mood, vision, reflexes, and memory.
Lack of sleep, whether ongoing or the result of a single night's wakefulness,
puts stress on the body and mind. It can negatively impact your physical and
mental health. At one time, napping was considered a natural part of life. In
the past hundred years, however, electricity and modern conveniences have
provided us with more time to engage in personal and professional activities.
Consequently there is now less time for sleep. A mere ten minutes of sleep in
the middle of the day can leave you feeling more cheerful and alert. A
half-hour long nap can sharpen your senses and refresh your energy reserves,
and a shorter nap can even sustain you through a long day. Napping can help
you make up for lost sleep and serves as a supplement to your usual sleep
schedule. You may need to give yourself permission to nap by making naptime a
part of your day.
Feelings of guilt about napping or being preoccupied with other activities
can keep you awake when you are trying to take a nap. If you need help,
surround yourself with soft pillows and blankets or soothing music. Try
to take a nap at the same time each day and use an alarm clock to ensure that
you don't fall into too deep a sleep. Learning to nap and enjoying its
benefits can help you reclaim your natural right to nap. You nourish your
being every time you take a nap.
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