How To Nap
When I am anxious or scared or overwhelmed, I find that napping can provide a reset. Here are some thoughts on how to take an optimal nap.
I find that 2:30pm is the perfect time to take a 45min-1hr nap on weekdays. (Yes I nap at work occasionally and announce it loudly to my coworkers. Let's normalize weekday naps. I do my most thoughtful work when I listen to my body and brain's request for a break. Let's dismantle this capitalist connection between productivity (quantity) and personal fulfillment (quality)).
I find that 4pm is the perfect time to take a 1hr - 1hr 30 min nap on weekends.
The best naps are not on your bed. The best naps are couch naps where you take one pillow from your bed and maybe a throw blanket. This makes clear to your brain that this is not real sleep time, it's fun sleep time.
PEE BEFORE YOU NAP. Nothing worse than sinking halfway into a nap and then having to cut it short to pee.
Open your window to the sun. Best naps have midday light streaming onto you to keep you warm.
Have an animal sleeping nearby if possible
Put a glass of water next to you before you nap for easy hydration post-nap.
Thank yourself for napping. You just took the time to reset and that's important.