7. Sweet Dreams

Last week I really stretched myself thin--between teaching, grading papers, working on developing my late summer and fall courses, and trying to make time for my own writing and photography, friends and family, I was worn out by the weekend. I was sluggish and seriously dragging. I felt a summer cold coming on. You know the kind--itchy throat, aching joints and fatigue that makes you want to pull the covers over your head and forget your schedule. But instead of taking a time-out, I fought it off for the weekend and kept going. I totally ignored what my body was screaming--"Hey, lady! Get a clue! I'm tired and need a rest. Give me a break. I work hard for you. Have some sympathy!"

By Monday afternoon I knew the gig was up. I couldn't even keep my eyes open. And so I did something very uncharacteristic--I took a nap. Yep. I cozied up on the couch with my dog, Mo, and fell into a deep slumber. Anyone who knows me also knows that I'm not a nap person. I always thought naps took valuable time from the to-do list that needed to get done and made you even sleepier for the rest of the day. And so I always resisted nap time. But I'm starting to understand why the afternoon siesta is one of the most revered traditions in many countries. A nap can leave you feeling refreshed and can give your body the rest it so desperately needs. This whole week, in fact, has been a sleep fest. I've taken a cue from Mo, who is a great role model for sweet dreams. She plays when she wants to play, drinks when she's thirsty and will lay down upside down like a human whenever she wants to catch some Z's. I love when her droopy eyes close and she quietly begins to snore. She certainly takes care of her needs. Mind you, she doesn't have quite the same bills and responsibilities that we all do but I think we could learn something from her.

Martha Graham once said, "The body never lies." With all of the hustle and bustle we go through in a week, it can be hard to hear the quiet voice of desperation that might be coming from your own body. But if you find yourself feeling tired, worn out or mentally drained, listen to the voice that is pleading with you to take a rest. Curl up in your bed, even if it's for a short time, and reenergize. What I realized is that all of those to-do list items--my class plans, my writing, spending time with people I love--won't ever get done if I get sick or neglect my health. Better to institute some preventative care, buy yourself some "health insurance" and start napping. Don't thank me. Thank Mo.