THE ART OF THE NAP

The Art of the Nap Unplugging From Life Without Apology

22 Seattle SeattleAwakenings.com C hildren, four-legged family members, Th anksgiving overeaters and the occasional squirrel on a branch have mastered an art that eludes most of us, and they engage in it without a shred of guilt. Defying our cultural habit of constantly being on the go and embracing the respite can be an active meditation, an invitation to cultivate uncommon stillness. Answering the siren’s call of a nap might very well be one of the most benefi cial acts of self-care we can give ourselves. Both body and psyche crave chill-out times for good reasons. Using study subjects ranging from NASA pilots to emergency room staff , curling up for a 20- to 30-minute siesta has been clinically proven to lower blood pressure, boost immunity, improve motor skills and enhance job performance and creativity. Power naps—the short-but-sweet kind—give us the opportunity to nourish the most neglected part of life, the inner life. Rest-fueled “me-time” can be a daily ritual punctuated with both practical and aesthetic inspiration. Choosing a spot drenched in inviting natural light or close-curtained tranquility and reserving a favored pillow, chair or luxurious coverlet can usher in by Marlaina Donato blissful time-out. Adding the presence of aromatherapeutic essential oils like lavender, Roman chamomile or tangerine or a vase of simple fresh fl owers can signal the ever-diligent sympathetic nervous system to cut back on overtime. Dropping down into unhurriedness like an anchor into port can prompt deeper and longer breaths and off er us the shameless chance to invest in quality daydreaming. Playing recorded sounds from nature—ocean waves, soft rain or gentle wind in the trees—can set the stage for a satisfying nap. Inviting the resident cat or pooch for a sleep-spell can also eff ect release of benefi cial endorphins. Scheduling a nap into the day like any other appointment not only ensures follow-through, but presents a succulent slice of something to look forward to. Putting the computer on sleep mode and turning off the phone signals the brain that it’s time to recharge. Social media interaction and phone chats can wait. Th e pursuit of wellbeing does not need explanation, apology or, most of all, guilt. Pleasant dreams. Marlaina Donato is the author of several books. She is also a composer of healing and inspiring music. Connect with her at AutumnEmbersMusic.com. GROW Your Business Secure your ad spot!

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Café Wylde CafeWylde.com A t Cafe Wylde, not only is the menu bursting with fl avor, comforting aromatics and vibrant colors, it is full of macro and micro nutrients that cannot be found in conventional foods. Th ey love to feel good and since many people have the same aspiration in life, that is why they decided to open up their kitchen to everyone and anyone that desires the same comforts out of food. Th ey specialize in sourcing the highest quality adaptogenic herbs and fresh ingredients to use in their elixirs, as well as their meals. Th is means everything from their exciting list of beverages to their variety of tacos can all be guaranteed to provide an extra heap of health. Th ey see life as being full of abundance and wonder, and intend for their customers to feel absolutely amazing with them. Th e women responsible for setting this gathering spot in motion come from a background of using nature to heal, having a grateful perspective and deeply rooted ambition to help assist with positive balance in the world we all have the opportunity to share. Th ey look forward to meeting each new customer! 425-374-3877

SoulFood Coff eeHouse 425-881-5309soulfoodcoff eehouse.com P eople are at the center of everything we do. Soulfood isn’t your average coff ee house. We hearken back to community spaces of old where kindred spirits gathered to slowly sip a warm beverage and escape the day. Here, delicious drinks are only the beginning. Walk through our doors and you’ll instantly see why we’re shattering expectations by bringing smiles, sustainability and social connection together in one shop. Employing sustainable business practices and creating a healthy environment today, tomorrow and for our children is a constant goal for us. We’re always aiming to do more. Learn more about what we’re doing now and why you can feel good about every cup of coff ee you drink at soulfood. Several nights a week, people gather here to listen to music. Th e tunes on our stage range from solo singers and songwriters to full bands. Hear well-known artists and up-and-comers you’ll be glad you found here fi rst. We off er a little something for every taste in one relaxing, culture-infused place. We’re a favorite hangout for local artists. Look around. Our vibe is so inspiring that you can oft en fi nd artists creating their latest work at one of our tables. Step inside and see what we mean.