If you can't sleep your way to the Top ... maybe you should learn to power nap!

I hope my horrid photo and the 'tongue-in-cheek' title of this post doesnt distract you from 'power napping'! It is a wonderful way to improve the way you self manage in these demanding times.

What is a power nap?
A short period of sleep that aims to provide a quick energy boost and increase your alertness. Typically, a power nap lasts 20 minutes, allowing you to enter the first two stages of sleep without reaching the deeper stages that can lead to grogginess.

Why ?
Power napping can have a significant impact on cognitive function. A brief nap can improve memory, learning, and problem-solving abilities. By allowing your brain to rest and consolidate information, plus potentially boost your creativity.

Boosting Mood and Emotional Agility:
We all know that lack of sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings, and increased stress levels. A well-timed powernap can help regulate emotions, improve mood, and increase emotional agility.

Physical Restoration and Performance:
From a physical perspective, power napping has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, reduced fatigue, and increased alertness. Athletes and high-performing individuals often use powernaps to enhance their physical performance and recovery.

As a runner, I love to power nap after lunch. In fact I sometimes have a cup of coffee (if it is before 1pm) and then a power nap, and then wake up and face my afternoon with A LOT of va va voom energy.

Practical Tips for Effective Power napping:
To reap the full benefits of power napping, it's essential to approach it strategically. Here are some practical tips for an effective powernap:
1. Find the Right Timing: Aim for a midday nap to avoid interfering with nighttime sleep patterns.
2. Create a Restful Environment: Minimize noise and light to facilitate relaxation. I use my sleep mask ...as per this horrid pic.
3. Set an Alarm: Keep the nap to max 20 mins to prevent entering deep sleep stages.
4. Practice Consistency: I powernap a few times every week. It's the 8th wonder of the World :-)

Power napping can be a game-changer for all of us to #bounceforward in this ever-changing, turbulent world.

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