Remember when you were a child, and the adults around you kept insisting that you should nap while you had the chance? Now that we’re the grown-ups, we finally get why they said that.
As soon as you step into adulthood, naps often get labeled as a sign of laziness. Taking time for self-care and catching a few extra Zzz’s is seen as taboo! This attitude certainly doesn’t align with the relentless hustle culture that self-help enthusiasts often promote.
I’m not typically one to indulge in a quick snooze, but there was a day when I felt utterly drained and unintentionally dozed off in the early afternoon. When I woke, I felt revitalized, clearer-headed, and energized enough to complete my day rather than just muddle through it. Since then, naps have been woven into my routine.
As someone who deals with insomnia and depression, I always thought naps weren’t for me. However, I’ve discovered they offer significant benefits. So here’s a heads-up to anyone rolling their eyes: napping is not a sign of laziness or incompetence. Recognizing your limits and respecting them is a skill that deserves applause.
Whether you’re managing a mental health condition or chronic pain, or simply trying to practice self-care to alleviate stress, a midday nap could be just what you need. If you’d like to read more about self-care practices, check out this article.
Making Naps Work for You
Not every nap will yield the same results. Are you feeling utterly exhausted, or do you need a moment to recharge and clear your head? According to Psychology Today, two different durations can help you regain the energy to finish your day without feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck. Aim for a 10- to 20-minute nap or go for a full 90 minutes.
A short nap of 10 to 20 minutes will prevent your body from entering a REM cycle, allowing you to recharge for the rest of your day. On the other hand, a 90-minute nap lets you complete an entire REM cycle, waking up feeling rejuvenated.
To make the most of your nap, be sure to rest before 3 p.m. Napping later might disrupt your regular sleep patterns. Timing is crucial to avoid that disorienting moment of waking up, confused and not knowing where you are.
Rejecting Hustle Culture
Just like Gretchen Wieners couldn’t make “fetch” happen, society needs to stop normalizing hustle culture. Forget what your favorite self-help guru says; life is more than just grinding 24/7. There’s no reward for running yourself into the ground, nor is there a badge for burnout.
Yes, chores like washing dishes and cooking meals need attention, but remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup. If you’re not getting sufficient rest, everyone around you—kids, partners, and others who depend on you—will feel the effects. Prioritize your well-being to better support those you care about.
Napping is just one of many forms of self-care. Some people enjoy bubble baths, while others prefer a relaxing pedicure. Personally, I dream of a bubble bath while getting a pedicure and napping (though that could get complicated). Realistically, I need a lot more support for my emotional, mental, and physical health than just bubbles and polish.
Burnout is a tangible issue, especially given the heightened stress we’ve all faced in the past year and a half due to Covid. It’s vital to acknowledge this and prioritize self-care.
Maybe napping isn’t your thing, and that’s perfectly okay. I may not understand it, but I respect it. Please extend the same courtesy to those who need extra rest to function. Napping isn’t lazy; in fact, I’d argue it’s essential, particularly for individuals dealing with mental and physical health challenges. So, remember the advice you heard as a child: If you can’t say something nice, maybe it’s better to take a nap and wake up with a fresh perspective.
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