The power of the power nap

Martha Stewart may not be everybody’s hero, but no one can argue with her success.
After all these years, we can see that her jail time, of which she speaks freely, has made her a more approachable, amiable, and beneficent person, but even after being made an example of, and being brought down by what amounts to chump change for the multi-billionairess, she rose like a phoenix from the ashes, came back better than ever, and has succeeded at all her endeavors since. She’s still out there on the airwaves doing new things in a new way and enjoying great success in a variety of arenas.
All hurdles aside, she is undeniably unstoppable, and one of her well-known tools to success is the power nap, which has proven to be very beneficial to all those who use it, not just Martha.
All power nappers will attest to this little tidbit as a choice morsel, if one is able to do it. Not all people can fall instantly asleep regardless of their surroundings, but anyone who is physically able to cop a power nap during the day, certainly should do so. We can plan ahead, schedule one in, set a cell phone alarm or a kitchen timer and fall out in guilt-free quiet.
Due to the sleep cycle which all humans have, the rule of thumb on naps is under 20 minutes or over three hours. Of course, people who are at work may encounter some heavy pink-slip issues if they choose to go the three-hour route at the office, but if 15 minutes will revive and refresh us to a point at which we are revved and ready for the rest of a tiring day, it is worth sacrificing part of a lunch hour. Even if a lunch break doesn’t exist, a 15-minute blackout, holding all calls, will serve us much better than dragging our exhausted selves around the board room. We’ll make clearer and wiser choices and be able to function at full steam.
This technique is toughest for full-time mothers whose lives are crazy 24/7/52 for several years but, if possible, a kitchen timer can be set for 15 or 20 minutes during the kiddies’ nap time. This delectable guilt-free treat will boost our power for the balance of our day. Though it may seem selfish, it really works to the benefit of all. It will rejuvenate nervous systems and aching bodies, and make us better at any job. If we can’t manage it at all, it can easily be substituted with the investment of a pre-bedtime respite in a hot bath after everyone is asleep; it’s not as great, but it helps a lot.

Students on all levels can also benefit untold amounts from learning to perfect the power nap. Struggling with time constraints, paperwork, projects, reading, roommates, and dozens of other issues all at the same time, they’ll find treasure in the power nap. Not only can this mini-vacation jump-start one’s energy levels, but the simple act of being able to sink into oblivion for even 15 minutes will replenish a frazzled spirit – and its long-term perks are far more healthful than chugging cans of Red Bull.
The most important component of power naps is the psychological benefit of taking them without guilt. When we know they’re a part of the whole day’s work plan, we feel entitled and can absolve ourselves of all guilt and just surrender. It’s part of the healing power, like being under a waterfall.
Many times, Chatterbox has discussed the frantic pace at which we live. Here is a simple diversion that many of us can allow ourselves with just a little planning. For years, while I was busily raising four kids with hardly a minute for myself, I power napped in my car while sitting outside piano lessons or after-school while waiting for buses to return from trips and such. When I was the driver and alone on a long road trip to see far-away grandies, I power napped in rest stop parking lots; 20 minutes and good to go.
Sure, it isn’t a waterfall, but hey, we do what we can.
Catch a wink and feel the power.

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