We all know that feeling: exhaustion hits like a wave, dragging you down with its heavy weight. Your eyelids feel like lead, your brain feels like mush, and the world seems a little too bright, a little too loud. For most of us, it's a temporary blip, a moment of weakness that passes with a cup of coffee and a deep breath. But for some of us, that feeling is a constant companion, a shadow that never quite lifts.
I'm one of those people. I'm a single parent, and my days are a whirlwind of activity. From dawn till dusk, I juggle multiple roles: daycare provider in the morning, virtual assistant and ESL teacher in the evening. It's a demanding schedule, and it leaves me perpetually sleep-deprived.
So, how do I cope? Well, I've mastered the art of the power nap.
You might think I'm crazy. "Napping? In the middle of the day? That's lazy!" But I've discovered that even a few minutes of shut-eye can make a world of difference. I've napped in the most unconventional places: on the sofa in between daycare drop-offs, in the corner of a noisy cafe while waiting for a virtual meeting, even in the middle of a bustling market.
People often stare, some even comment. "Why are you sleeping?" they ask, their voices laced with judgment. "Are you lazy?" they whisper.
But I don't care. I know my body needs rest, and I'm not ashamed to prioritize it.
The truth is, I'm not lazy. I'm a hard worker, a dedicated parent, and a determined individual who's doing everything in my power to provide for my family. And sometimes, that means taking a nap in the middle of the day.
Here's the thing: napping isn't a sign of weakness;
it's a sign of self-care. It's a way to recharge, to boost your energy levels, and to improve your cognitive function.
When you're tired, your body and brain can't work properly. You can't think clearly, you make mistakes, and you get grumpy. Napping helps fix that. It gives your body and brain a chance to rest and recharge.
For me, napping isn't a luxury, it's a necessity. It's how I stay on top of everything. It's how I make sure I can be the best version of myself for my kids, my clients, and myself.