Power Naps

When I was in college, I would go to the library to study and take 15-minute power naps between reading and studying.

After school, I would eat a light meal, go to sleep, get up two hours later to study, do homework, or do whatever I am supposed to do that day.

I have taken numerous exams through the years, and I believe that my powers naps in between studying have greatly helped me absorb better the material I am studying.

I recognize it back then how short naps made me more productive because my mind and body are rested. It had become my quick and easy way to refresh my body and mind. I am alert and focused after a nap. And feel that I can accomplish anything that I have set out to do.

Many well-known people know the benefits of naps. Winston Churchill said, “Nature has not intended humankind to work from eight in the morning until midnight without that refreshment of blessed oblivion which, even if it only lasts twenty minutes, is sufficient to renew all the vital forces… Don’t think you will be doing less work because you sleep during the day. That’s a foolish notion held by people who have no imaginations. You will be able to accomplish more. You get two days in one — well, at least one and a half.”

Albert Einstein also said that he slept 10 hours at night and had naps during the day to charge his genius brain.

John F. Kennedy had one to two hours of afternoon siesta with his wife, Jackie.

Tips on Power Naps

1. Recognize when you need a nap. It will be person-specific, but fatigue, difficulty focusing, irritability are signs that you need a break, and a quick nap is a quick solution.
2. The length of naps is personal and specific to the individual. Know thyself.
3. Make yourself comfortable to ensure a good power nap.
4. Put yourself in a comfortable position, close your eyes, relaxing your body and mind; you may or may not fall asleep.
5. When you wake up, drink water, stretch, and start doing simple activities before handling major tasks.

The Benefits

My power naps have helped me physically and mentally overcome what I needed to accomplish until now. My productivity has increased, and it has helped me enjoy doing those things.

In times of great personal turmoil, taking naps before making decisions has made me see things in a better perspective. I try not to make a decision when I am exhausted. Through the years, I have learned that when I make decisions when I am exhausted, they are poor and rushed, which I regret later on.

Napping is a simple and free way to love me—my way to refresh and rejuvenate my mind, body, and spirit.

When things get too much, getaway, and take a nap, you can see things clearly when you wake up. You are more objective and decisive.