Creating Nap Nooks

The National Sleep Foundation says that more than 85% of mammalian species are polyphasic sleepers – meaning that they sleep for short bursts throughout the day – while humans are in the 15% of monophasic sleepers whose days are defined by a sleep period and an awake period. However, napping is a strong part of many cultures as well as something young children and elderly persons make part of the daily routine.

The benefits of napping

A short nap during the day can restore alertness and enhance performance – giving your body and mind the chance to gain back some energy to continue the day with. As adults, naps can help to reduce mistakes and accidents, helping to keep you at your most efficient and alert. As babies and young children, naps help to achieve the 12 to 14 hours they require each day. The benefits of napping are endless, but the key to doing this effectively comes down to creating the ideal environment for slumber.

The perfect nap environment

To drift off for a nap, you need to make sure several variables are in play. Firstly, you need to get the temperature right. Too warm and you’ll be too uncomfortable, too cold and you’ll be preoccupied by that to drift off. There is no recommended temperature as everyone is different – play around with the thermostat until it’s just right. Next up is light. The napping area should be as dark as possible. Black out blinds might be a little much, especially for such a short time but making the area (or areas) as dark as possible will help you fall asleep much easier. Lastly, you need to invest in some inviting textiles. Chunky throws, comforting blankets and lots of pillows for little and big heads to rest on. Think of it as an interiors expedition!

Nap nooks

Thinking about the above elements for the perfect nap environment, try to envision where in your home you could have these placed. Little nap nooks could be in your living room, in the bedroom or even in the kitchen depending on the layout of your home. At Noa and Nani, we have a selection of day beds that are nap-ready at a moment’s notice. Why not try out one of our day beds with a pull-out trundle? They are ideal for nap time and can be hidden away very easily. All that’s left is to make sure you schedule in the time for naps for you and your little ones – if you’ve had a busy day (which is more than likely) then there’ll be no need to count sheep!

Quick-fire nap tips

Timing: 20 to 30 minutes Alarm: A must if you don’t want to overdo it Sounds: Zero! Total silence is required