The next several posts will be related to a new book I’m working on. The title – at this time – is Feline Life Lessons. The short life lessons will be accompanied by cat pictures. The pictures will be of my cats and those of my friends/followers. So, if you have cats and some good shots of them, if you feel inspired by the lessons I will cover over the next several posts, please send them along. You will, of course, get full credit for your pic(s).
Feline Life Lessons #2 – TAKE NAPS
Cats spend a lot of time napping. So much so that people call their own naps “cat naps”.
In our busy society, many people shun naps. “I’ve got so much to do!” “I don’t have time for such things.” “It’s a waste of time.” “There’s no purpose for naps.” “Just push through.”
Many are proud of how hard they work, especially those in high level jobs or entrepreneurs. “I work 16 hour days.” “I was so into what I was doing I stayed up until 3am and got up at 6.” “I can’t remember the last time I had a day off.” “I always work through lunch.” “Breaks are for the wooses.”
Ever heard – or said – anything similar to these?
It’s easy to admire those who are so “dedicated.” It’s easy to feel that those who work so hard are “heroes.” It’s tempting to want to emulate such people and work harder and longer.
I’m here to tell you it ain’t worth it! Everyone, no matter what their job – CEO, electrician or mom – needs to recharge. A long holiday. A day off. A lunch break. A nap. These chances to relax, to decompress, to recharge are critical in our lives.
Cats have it figured out! I look at my cats all the time and wish that if there is a next life that I will come back as a well loved house cat. What a life! Sleep, eat, get love, repeat.
I am a napper. Pretty much every day after lunch (or a little later if my schedule doesn’t allow), I take a 20 minute nap. I can even take a 5 or 10 minute quicky if that’s my only option. I always wake up refreshed and ready to face what’s next. I prefer to nap on my chaise under the big window in my living room. My chocolate Siamese Marlowe will usually nap with me laid out on my chest. If I’m out and about I will often pull over in a quiet spot and put my seat back for a few minutes to recharge. No matter what the location, I value my naps.
Powering down doesn’t necessarily mean closing your eyes. If you aren’t a good napper – some people have trouble falling asleep or sleep too long which creates grogginess – find some way to rest. Take a walk. Have a chat with someone in the lunch room. Read something non-work related. Whatever you do, take your mind off your work, your worries and allow your brain to reset.
For more information on napping, check out this information from the National Sleep Foundation.
Take a lesson from the cat. Take breaks. Relax. Enjoy life. We are not here to work only. Give your brain a rest. You will be much more efficient and effective.
I promise.
Hugs, Christie Mawer – The Bad Kitty
thebadkittyis@gmail.com