Remember when we were kids, and the grown-ups would insist we take a nap while we had the chance? Now that we’ve transitioned into adulthood, that advice resonates more than ever.
As we grow up, naps often become synonymous with laziness. Prioritizing self-care and catching some extra sleep is frowned upon, especially in a society that glorifies constant productivity. The hustle culture doesn’t leave room for rest, and self-help experts seem to agree.
Personally, I’m not one to indulge in a quick snooze. However, there was a day when I felt utterly miserable and dozed off unintentionally in the early afternoon. Upon waking, I felt rejuvenated and ready to tackle the rest of my day instead of merely enduring it. Since then, naps have become an integral part of my routine.
As someone who grapples with insomnia and depression, I always believed that napping wasn’t for me. Yet, I’ve discovered that there are significant benefits to be gained from it. And for those who might scoff at the idea: napping isn’t a sign of weakness. Realizing your limits and respecting them is an underrated skill. Cue the applause.
Whether you’re dealing with mental health challenges, chronic pain, or simply trying to practice self-care to alleviate stress, a midday rest could be just what you need.
Making the Most of Your Nap
Not all naps are created equal. Are you feeling drained and in need of a quick recharge? Or do you require a moment to unwind and get a deeper rest?
Psychology Today suggests two effective nap durations to help you power through the day. Depending on your needs, aim for a quick 10 to 20-minute nap for a burst of energy, or opt for a full 90-minute nap to complete a full REM cycle and wake up feeling truly refreshed.
To maximize your nap’s benefits, try to rest before 3 p.m. Napping too late in the day could disrupt your nighttime sleep. We’ve all experienced that disorienting moment of waking up from a nap, confused about where we are and what time it is, especially when faced with demands from little ones to whip up an elaborate meal.
Rejecting the Hustle Culture
Just as Gretchen Wieners couldn’t make “fetch” happen, society must stop normalizing hustle culture. Regardless of what self-help gurus say, life is about more than constant grind. There are no awards for being perpetually exhausted, and burnout is not a badge of honor.
Yes, chores await—dishes to wash, laundry to fold, and meals to prepare. But it’s crucial to recognize that you can’t give to others if you’re running on empty. If you’re not getting adequate rest, everyone around you—kids, partners, and others who depend on you—will feel the repercussions in various ways. Taking care of yourself is essential for being able to care for them.
Napping is just one of many self-care options available. Some prefer bubble baths, while others enjoy pedicures. Personally, I’d love to combine all those activities into one luxurious experience, though that might be unrealistic in my daily life. We all need comprehensive support for our emotional, mental, and physical health, particularly given the heightened stress of recent times.
If napping isn’t your thing, that’s perfectly fine—I respect that. I only ask that you extend that same understanding to those who need extra rest to function. Napping is not lazy; it’s essential for many, especially those facing physical and mental health challenges. So, remember the wisdom from our childhood: if you don’t have anything nice to say, perhaps it’s time for a nap to wake up refreshed.
For more insights on self-care strategies, check out this other blog post or visit this excellent resource for pregnancy-related information.
Summary
Napping should not be viewed as laziness; it is a vital form of self-care for many individuals, particularly those with mental health struggles or chronic pain. Understanding how to optimize naps can significantly enhance well-being, and it’s essential to challenge the stigma surrounding rest in a hustle-focused society.