Great tips to take a great nap!

Napping can be a great way to catch up on sleep, increase productivity and become more creative. Napping puts the body in a relaxed state, which counteracts the effects of daily stress. Studies have shown that napping can actually decrease risk your of dying from heart disease.

How to Nap Effectively

Nap Time: Prime nap time is from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Darkness: Use a face mask or eye pillow to provide daytime darkness and make your nap more effective.

Not Too Late: Napping within three hours of bedtime may interfere with nighttime sleep.

Quiet Place: Assure that you will not be disturbed for the duration of your nap.

30-Minute Maximum: When taking a nap longer than 30 minutes, you run the risk of heading into deep sleep, which will leave you feeling tired and groggy.

Set an Alarm: You will eventually train yourself to nap for the amount of time you set aside. Until then, set an alarm or ask someone to wake you up.

The Caffeine Nap: Some people claim that drinking coffee and then taking an immediate nap works well.

via about.com

How to Take a “Meditation Nap”

STRETCH your legs for 30 seconds.
SIT on a chair or couch. If you’re at work back away from your desk a bit.
CLOSE YOUR EYES.
STRETCH your arms above your head, slowly roll your head to stretch your neck.
DEEP BREATHING
REST and RELAX your face, jaw, eyes and whole body.
BE AWARE HOW YOU FEEL as you relax.
CALM THE MIND. L
IGNORE NOISES in the same way that you ignore thoughts. Repeat your mantra or “Empty the Mind.”
OPEN YOUR EYES slowly after about 10-20 minutes.
AHHHH. Feel the rejuvenation!

via lifelearningtoday