How many of you begin to feel really tired at some point during the day? I used to get so tired during the course of a work day that I'd have to go out to my car, eat a quick lunch and inevitably I'd find myself nodding off for a nap. When I finally allowed myself the gift of a little catnap during the day I realized how much more effective and self-expressed I became. Since then I have always made time in my workday for a catnap just in case I need one.

I've spoken to many people who currently are having the same experience that I once did, but just don't know how to carve away any precious time for themselves in the middle of the day. If you're wondering how you can afford the time to take a daily nap then I'd like to show you an easy and effective way to make the time for one. Napping is known to be one of the most important things that you can do to create more happiness, productivity and relaxation in your day. It’s no surprise that when you become rundown that it’s easier to be susceptible to the latest cold or flu. A daily catnap is one of the best weapons that I know of to keep your immune system running at its peak.

If you learn to do this you'll be in excellent company. Most of our Presidents have always made a point of taking a daily nap. I can't even imagine the stress of doing a job like that everyday. Napping during the day is a little luxury that I demand that we learn to reclaim. If you don’t know how, why not just take a cue from your favorite feline? Cats have napping down to an art form and you’ll definitely pick up a few pointers from them. A cozy, soft spot is all that they need and an hour later they’re up and ready to catch their next mouse!

A restorative break in the middle of the day to recharge your batteries is one of the most important things that you can do for your nervous system and your overall wellbeing. A daily catnap has been linked to increased creativity, productivity and more deliberate critical thinking skills. It will also help you supercharge your batteries so that you can more easily extend yourself during the times that you need to. This is one of the techniques that I always mention to my clients who are struggling on the brink of adrenal fatigue. Taking the time to eat a nourishing lunch and allowing your body and mind to just stop for a few moments will allow you the time to process what's happened during the day and let you reset your mood.

The instructions for taking a wonderful nap are very simple and you'll need several things. A quiet space where you won't be interrupted, a warm cup of something that you like to drink and a gentle alarm are the basic necessities. If you've got an hour for lunch either shut the door of your office or go out to your car, turn on a wonderful classical music station and spend fifteen minutes simply reading and enjoying your lunch. Then set your alarm for 30 minutes, put on a lavender scented sleep mask, put a comfy blanket over yourself, lay your seat back and sink into a splendid cat nap. Don't answer your phone or texts during this exquisite "me" time. When you awaken you'll have 15 minutes to reorient yourself so sip your beverage and get ready to walk back in to work refreshed and happy. You might even want to keep a journal with you so that you can capture the thoughts, dreams and/or ideas that have upon awakening. Often these first thoughts upon waking can be the catalysts for important life changes.

Please don’t feel at all guilty about taking this precious time for yourself and remember that you deserve a break in your day that will allow you to relax, refresh and prepare for whatever is to come. Even on a day when you are not working, nothing feels quite as luxurious as a nap in the middle of the day, in your bed with the covers pulled up tight. Trust me, taking a nap after a warm bath is a wonderful luxury that is completely free of charge yet full of rewards. I hope that you’ll take the time to explore this for yourself and please feel free to let me know some of the many ways that you have learned to enjoy this relaxing and personal experience.