Time: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour

STEP 1: Decide on a time when it is feasible to take a nap. If you cannot do it during the weekend consider going to a park or resting in your car on your lunch break. Be sure to pick a time when you don’t have a lot going on so you can allow your body and mind to really unwind and relax—let yourself indulge and feel the full benefits of rest. 

STEP 2: Set a timer (if you must). Otherwise, sleep until you wake up. Your body knows what you need.

STEP 3: Actually REST. If you have trouble slowing your mind down, start taking deep breaths and counting 1-6 on the inhale and 1-6 on the exhale. Relax your body, while thinking about breathing and counting, rather than your to-do list. Be patient with yourself if you are unable to fall asleep right away—allowing your body and mind to rest even without sleep is still very beneficial.

STEP 4: If you are concerned that napping will interrupt your sleep that evening, set your timer for 45 minutes. Power naps are just as helpful and provide your body with energy.

STEP 5: Start with one nap a week but see if you can increase it to two. Your body will thank you for it. Soon enough, you will be a pro. Over time, you’ll notice how your energy levels increase and your mood improves by getting some much-needed rest.