Publisher Letter, November/December 2019
Happy Reading,
The Art of the Nap
Unplugging From Life Without Apology
by Marlaina Donato
Children, four-legged family members, Thanksgiving overeaters and the occasional squirrel on a branch have mastered an art that eludes most of us, and they engage in it without a shred of guilt.
Defying our cultural habit of constantly being on the go and embracing the respite can be an active meditation, an invitation to cultivate uncommon stillness. Answering the siren’s call of a nap might very well be one of the most beneficial acts of self-care we can give ourselves. Both body and psyche crave chill-out times for good reasons. Using study subjects ranging from NASA pilots to emergency room staff, curling up for a 20- to 30-minute siesta has been clinically proven to lower blood pressure, boost immunity, improve motor skills and enhance job performance and creativity.
Power naps—the
short-but-sweet kind—give us the opportunity to nourish the most neglected part
of life, the inner life. Rest-fueled “me-time” can be a daily ritual punctuated
with both practical and aesthetic inspiration. Choosing a spot drenched in
inviting natural light or close-curtained tranquility and reserving a favored
pillow, chair or luxurious coverlet can usher in blissful time-out. Adding the
presence of aromatherapeutic essential oils like lavender, Roman chamomile or
tangerine or a vase of simple fresh flowers can signal the ever-diligent
sympathetic nervous system to cut back on overtime. Dropping down into
unhurriedness like an anchor into port can prompt deeper and longer breaths and
offer us the shameless chance to invest in quality daydreaming. Playing
recorded sounds from nature—ocean waves, soft rain or gentle wind in the
trees—can set the stage for a satisfying nap. Inviting the resident cat or
pooch for a sleep-spell can also effect release of beneficial endorphins.
Scheduling a nap into the day like any other appointment not only ensures follow-through, but presents a succulent slice of something to look forward to. Putting the computer on sleep mode and turning off the phone signals the brain that it’s time to recharge. Social media interaction and phone chats can wait. The pursuit of well-being does not need explanation, apology or, most of all, guilt. Pleasant dreams.
Marlaina
Donato is the author of several books. She is also a composer of healing and inspiring music. Connect with her at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.
Happy Reading, Happy Resting and Happy Holidays,