How to take a power nap
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Date Posted:
June-9-2010 18:15
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Feeling tired today? Groggy? You’re not alone. Research shows that 80 per cent of Australians experience an issue with sleeping that adversely affects their daily lives. But one solution being increasingly promoted by doctors is a good old-fashioned nap.
A quick 40 winks is known to increase reaction time, memory, coordination and mood. Here’s how to incorporate a siesta into your daily routine…
Find the best timePost-lunch, it’s not that lasagne making you sleepy. As mammals, our bodies are biologically programmed for two periods of intense sleepiness: one from 2am to 4am, one between 1pm and 3pm.
Get darkThat means lights off in adjoining rooms if they leak under the door – and hide LEDs on, say, your mobile charger. If in doubt, use old lady-style eyeshades. Or a bin bag (cut air holes).
Get comfyFind a quiet, comfortable place safely away from tigers, fire etc. Ideally, lie down: it takes 50 per cent longer to fall asleep sitting upright. If noise is an issue, put in earplugs or turn on some white noise.
Calm your bodyBreathe slowly and concentrate on relaxing your muscles one group at a time. Quiet your mind by taking a mental walk along, say, a beach, or – most boringly – count down from 500.
Six more tips to help you sleep on the run...