Monday

"Those who don't believe in magic will never find it."

-Roald Dahl

Welcome to Monday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Why a quick nap can do wonders

• Your guide to the perfect nap

• Is this the softest blanket ever?

• How to not lose sleep over daylight savings

Why a Quick Nap Can Do Wonders for You

Midday fatigue? A quick nap may be the answer you’ve been searching for. Short naps of 20-30 minutes can boost your mood, improve memory, and reduce stress—without the grogginess that comes from a longer snooze. The key is timing: avoid napping too late in the day, as it can interfere with nighttime sleep.

So, how do you perfect your power nap? First, keep it short. Anything beyond 30 minutes might plunge you into a deep sleep, leaving you groggy. A comfortable, quiet spot is essential. Whether it's a cozy corner of your home or a quiet office nook, a peaceful environment helps you wake up refreshed.

Wondering when to nap? The best time for most adults is during the afternoon slump, typically a few hours after lunch. And if you want an extra boost, try having a cup of coffee before you nap—the caffeine kicks in just as you wake up!

With these simple tips, a power nap can help you feel revitalized and ready to tackle whatever comes next.

How to Nap Without Waking Up More Tired

We all know that feeling—waking up from a nap only to feel even more exhausted. It's called sleep inertia, and it's a sign that you’ve overshot the ideal nap length. But don’t worry, the perfect nap can leave you feeling refreshed if you follow a few simple guidelines.

The key is consistency. Experts recommend setting aside time for a nap every day, ideally between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. This prevents the nap from interfering with your nightly sleep routine. Make it a habit, and stick to the same time each day for maximum benefit.

Next, keep your naps short—aim for no more than 20-30 minutes. This helps you stay in the lighter phases of sleep, where you can wake up feeling energized rather than groggy. If you find yourself snoozing longer, it may be a sign that your body is craving more nighttime rest.

Lastly, nap early! Napping too late can mess with your sleep schedule, leaving you restless come bedtime. So, grab your pillow and take that afternoon break—you’ll wake up feeling ready to take on the rest of the day.

We Found The Softest Blanket Ever

True relaxation starts with comfort. The Marshmallow Blanket from Unhide is buttery soft, ultra-plush, and 100% cruelty-free, designed to wrap you in warmth and tranquility. Whether you're curling up with a book, meditating, or just unwinding after a long day, this vegan fur blanket feels like a cloud you never want to leave.

More than just cozy—it’s self-care you can feel. Machine washable and made to last, it’s the perfect guilt-free indulgence.

Feel the comfort for yourself! Note To Self readers get an exclusive 20% discount with code NoteToSelf20. See the difference here. 

Thank you to Unhide for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Don't Let Daylight Saving Ruin Your Sleep

The clocks are springing forward this weekend, and while that means more daylight, it can also throw off your sleep schedule. If you’ve ever struggled with the sudden loss of an hour of sleep, you’re not alone! Adjusting your routine ahead of time can make the transition smoother.

Start by gradually shifting your bedtime earlier, about 20 minutes earlier each night for three days leading up to the time change. This helps your body get ahead of the disruption. If that’s not possible, try sticking to your usual wake-up time—yes, even on those groggy mornings!

Create the perfect sleep environment to ensure quality rest. Keep your room cool, dark, and quiet, and limit electronic use before bed. Dimming the lights and avoiding screens can help boost melatonin production, the hormone that helps you sleep.

Lastly, don't forget to get outside! A walk in the morning sunlight helps reset your internal body clock, giving you a natural energy boost while preparing you for the shift. Stay consistent and intentional with your routine, and you’ll sail into the new season well-rested.

Wellness Round-Up:

1. 8 Jane Austen film destinations you can actually visit

2. The ultimate solo travelling tips

3. Green snacks you can make for St. Patrick’s Day

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ True or False?: True! The shift can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to sleep deprivation, which can impact health and productivity, and even cause a temporary increase in heart attacks and accidents.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Remember, naps aren’t just for kids—taking time to rest can do wonders for your mind and body. Whether it’s a quick 10-minute power nap or a longer rest, giving yourself permission to pause and recharge is an act of self-care. So, the next time you feel that afternoon slump, embrace the nap! Your energy, mood, and productivity will thank you. 💛

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!