We’ve been discussing naps frequently around here. I’m fascinated by the idea of improving cognitive function, boosting hormone production and generally becoming more effective in life by simply taking a break and napping.

Today, I’m curious about how to optimize for good sleep. More specifically, I’m mining for what sort of surface is ideal for the most Zs. We can’t always be assured of a bed for an afternoon nap, so we must be resourceful and not let obstacles distract us from our goal.

Yesterday afternoon, I lay on the floor in my office as has been my practice for several days straight. Shades drawn, feet up on a chair, I closed my eyes and rested. As the minutes passed, I drifted off into a very light, barely identifiable sleep. There was nothing beyond that. I was up and working 30 minutes later. This was not my desired outcome. Rather, I’d like to grab 45 minutes of real, uninterrupted REM and deep sleep. The good stuff.

The other day, I grabbed myself this product for my afternoon slumbers at work. I logically figured that I could roll it up and stick it in the corner when I’m not napping. Will this be the surface that has me seeing the green butterfly from the Lunesta commercials (our drug companies are clever, huh)?  It seems there may not be conclusive evidence to suggest that I’m doing myself a favor. From zafu.net:

When I researched for months trying to find an intelligent, scientific article on what type of bed will provide deep, rejuvenating sleep, I could not find it. None of the research seems to know specifically anything about this–in other words, the statements are not definitive and claims are not backed up, or are backed up with dubious studies. Even the terms ‘comfort’, ‘soft’, and ‘healthy’ are not defined. No studies measure the important health indicators, like pulse, heart rate, levels of stress hormones as related to the type of surface being used.

I’ve done my own digging and haven’t found a study that satisfies me, either. At this point, I’ll trust logic. I’m guessing that if I’m more comfortable, I’ll rest easier. Perhaps my purchase will help. Frankly, this floor is exceptionally hard, and it won’t take much to elevate the pleasure of my experience, at least incrementally.

Value at the margins,

Kap