Despite manifold evidence to the contrary, naps are still treated like an inferior means of passing time not spent otherwise occupied. Often, we hear (from the unenlightened non-nappers) that there’s a whole world out there waiting to be conquered, and any time not dedicated to running around trying to do just that is a total waste.
People who take naps are generally called lazy and unmotivated; but those of us who prioritize a regular weekend napping schedule know better. Naps are seriously underrated.
If you’ve decided to forgo an active weekend in favor of a few extra hours spent in REM Cycle, here’s why you shouldn’t feel even the least bit guilty:
You Probably Didn’t Get Enough Sleep During the Week
Most people don’t. In fact, the CDC calls our collective sleep deficit a “public health epidemic.” Of course, you shouldn’t let your weekend nap plans replace any sleep lost during the week, but if you’re feeling more tired than usual after a long and exhausting few days, you need to take the time to make up the difference. Just an hour or two on Saturday or Sunday (or both) will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to start Monday off on the right foot.
Less Coffee Will Be Needed
Coffee isn’t awful for you, but you should consider giving your body a break from the caffeine overload on the days in which you don’t need to wake up early. Instead of reaching for the coffee pot when the afternoon crash begins to set in, take a power nap instead. Twenty minutes of shut eye is enough to increase motor performance the same way a cup of coffee would, so skip the caffeine and curl up on the couch.
Shutting Off Your Brain is Important
Sometimes, zoning out with an episode of something mindless on Netflix just isn’t enough to give your brain a rest. Your brain is a muscle, and just like any other, it requires a break every once in a while. If your eyelids are beginning to feel heavy at four o’clock on a Saturday afternoon, don’t fight it.
You Can Nap with a Buddy
Cuddle up with that special someone instead of piling on the blankets to keep warm. Body heat always trumps the artificial, and who doesn’t love being close?
You Deserve a Break
Really. You work incredibly hard, and you’ve earned every moment of time spent on the down low. Of course, just because your days off the clock are limited doesn’t mean you need to shove a ton of excited plans into your weekend–sometimes, the best thing you can do for yourself and your peace of mind is absolutely nothing. Take that nap and achieve deep sleep. You’ll feel so much better about life and the week ahead.
