Although it wasn’t always true, I love a nap. On days when I’m not working, I often take a quick nap after lunch. And it’s definitely something I like to enjoy while on holiday. As an early riser, I find a nap gives a recharge mid-day that helps me accomplish whatever my afternoon and evening holds.

Prior to establishing this practice, I thought naps were a waste of time. As a good nighttime sleeper, a mid-day snooze seemed counter intuitive and also childlike to me. I was so anti-nap that I found savasana at the end of a yoga class very challenging. Forced relaxation wasn’t for me.

About 10 years ago while on a retreat, napping returned to my life with a new perspective. A nap after lunch was recommended to boost energy for the balance of the day, but a short shot was key to reaping the benefits. And this is where I learned a whole new way to nap. I set a timer and worked on perfecting my 30-minute nap, giving me enough time to fall asleep and wake up refreshed, without grogginess. It has become a staple of my days. And though I always set a timer, I usually wake up a minute or two before it goes off.

To some, a nap may seem lazy or indulgent, studies have shown that they improve alertness, mood, memory and job performance, all while reducing stress. Who doesn’t want that?

What’s your view on napping? Regular practice? Guilty pleasure? Complete waste of time?