I am back in school with my dog, and today’s subject is napping.
I have always been a self-proclaimed terrible napper (clear evidence being the fact that I am currently writing about napping instead of actually napping.) But I desperately want to improve.
In clear contrast is my pup, Beta, who is an excellent napper - an A+ to my abysmal F. So last weekend, I decided to figure out what I could learn from him on the subject of naps.
My notes on his process:
Step 1: Feels sleepy & lays down - he doesn’t over think it.
Step 2: Tests out all available napping places (in the case of this particular day, two chairs & couch on our outside deck).
Step 3: Chooses the best spot (chair in the shade).
Step 4: Gets cozy: wiggles around, turns about, moves the pillows to be just so.
Step 5: Flops over, closes eyes, sleeps.
Step 6: Ignores distractions (i.e., neighbor voices, birds, breeze).
Step 7: Relocates from time to time but always repeats step 5.
He makes it look so easy, so I decide to put my computer away and follow his step-by-step process.
Results of my latest attempt to nap:
Step 1: quick internal check, yes I do indeed feel sleepy.
Steps 2 & 3: evaluate suitable spots - I am not as small and bendy as my dog, so I stick to the deck’s couch.
Step 4: I situate the pillow and cover up with a light blanket. I feel cozy.
Step 5: I flop, as best as an adult human can, and close my eyes.
Step 6: I try hard to ignore distractions.
But…
I hear “Mommmmmm” being called over and over. Even though I’m pretty sure it’s not my kids calling, I start to wonder if they need something?
I remind myself that I am napping and close my eyes tighter.
Then…
The breeze is picking up. I feel warm under my blanket, but I worry about the umbrella. Is it ok? Do I need to close it up?
I convince myself it’s fine and keep my eyes closed.
Then I wonder about the time, it’s getting late and I should probably make dinner.
And that’s it, my mind is going, I have given in to distraction, and I am up. Once I am up, the magic of Beta’s nap is over too. He jumps off the chair and we are moving on with the day.
Taking notes on napping and watching my dog so effortlessly find a cozy spot and ignore distractions shows me how easily I am distracted. Even if something isn’t a pressing issue, I let the “shoulds” creep in, and I struggle to quiet the nagging voice telling me what I should be doing with this time instead of napping.
Alas, I was not successful this day, but I am not going to give up. In addition to the value naps provide - improved cognitive function, memory retention, reduced stress and fatigue, and emotional regulation - naps have become a symbol of being able to let go and give myself permission to do just one thing.
And I want to do better.
This is what Beta (and all dogs) do so well. They live in the moment, only ever focusing on one thing at a time. Strengthening the “stay present” muscle will not only help me become a better napper, but it will also help me be a better parent, friend, partner and writer.
My furry friend is such a good reminder of so many things. I am grateful to have him in my life as my buddy (and my teacher.)
ICYMI, previous lessons from my dog, Beta:
These furry pals teach us so much if we listen. I love “couch time” with mine… a chance to re-energize. Thanks for the lesson!!