Start Your Workout With A Nap?

Yes! Here's why:

1. Many times throughout our daily lives we are constantly moving, thinking, doing; lying on the floor for a few minutes is a great way to reset your mind and nervous system while lowering stress before an additionally stressful (good stress, but still stress) workout.

2. It helps bring good posture and alignment back into your body after much time spent on your feet and/or moving around.

3. It simply gives you a few minutes to recover a bit more from/during the day for a stronger workout.

4. It improves mind-body connection and awareness, especially if you take a meditative approach to this rest time.

5. Laying on your back for a few minutes can improve blood circulation, which will help improve the effectiveness of your warm up exercises.

6. Rewarding yourself with this "savasana-like" rest before exercise is a great way to build an exercise habit.

7. Laying on the floor without expecting anything or trying to do anything, just resting, improves your mood.

8. If you are an athlete, you may be doing workout training sessions, skills work, and competition/games all in one day. Laying on the floor for a few minutes provides much needed rest and help reset and refocus your mind for the new challenge.

How do you do this "pre-workout nap time" thing?

Lay down on a flat, smooth floor on your back and close your eyes. Spread your feet apart comfortably (wide or narrow is fine) and put your hands out to the side (down by your hips or above your shoulders, whichever you prefer). Set a timer for 2-5 minutes, during this time you shouldn't expect to fall asleep. But, if you wish to take a longer nap and let yourself fall asleep, limit your rest to 20 minutes max. Just relax during this time and appreciate the chance to rest. You can listen to music if you wish; be free of other distractions, however. When the time is up, go begin your normal workout routine. That's it!