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Original poster

I have an urge to sleep in the early afternoon...

15 replies

TW · 26/04/2004 14:34

Help - I have such a strong feeling of wanting to sleep for an hour or so at around 1 to 2 pm every single day. Sometimes I sit in a chair and grab 10 mins which really helps but with 3 under 6, the only time I can get things done is at this time of day when the younger two are asleep (ds1 at school). I'm not really a coffee drinker but sometimes make myself a strong one to try to revive myself, but I know this isn't really terribly good for me. Can anyone suggest any supplements or tricks?

OP posts:
goosey · 26/04/2004 14:52

TW, I would listen to your body and enjoy a well-earned rest if I were you. Three under 6 gives you a valid sleep-pass in my eyes. Things will always need doing even after you've 'done' them.
If you really, really need to be active then the coffee - make it a really good enjoyable fresh ground treat in your day - is the best I can think of too. But save it for just the one cup per day!

dogwalker · 26/04/2004 14:57

TW - if you can I would listen to your body and take that well earned rest. Sometimes you feel twice as good after, even if you do feel a little guilty. I don't have chance often to have an afternoon nap now that I'm working and both DS at school, but yes, if your body's needing sleep then you should take it. I would suggest a good walk to wake you up if needed but if your children are napping there's not much you can do about that.

aloha · 26/04/2004 15:01

It's really, really normal. Your body clock means you experience a dip in energy at this time and a natural desire to sleep. Try a 20minute catnap - that is the best length of time to refresh yourself but no make yourself groggy. I am writing a feature on your body clock atm so was pleased to see your question illustrating my point for me so nicely. So grab a 20min kip with a clear conscience. You will have a happier, more productive afternoon for it!

Original poster
TW · 26/04/2004 15:06

Who do you write for, aloha? I will be interested to see it.

OP posts:
katierocket · 26/04/2004 15:18

the other thing you might want to think about is blood sugar levels. do you eat lots of sweet things or refined carbs? if so, that could be contributing to it.

Natt · 26/04/2004 15:22

I agree with everyone who says that it sounds like you need and deserve the rest. I think katierocket has a point about carbs - a good way to fight early afternoon sleepiness is to avoid carb-heavy lunches. try some salad with portein if you can and avoid bread potatoes biscuits etc...

aloha · 26/04/2004 15:48

It's for Eve - and I'm fascinated! The post lunch dip is something we all have. We have a mental peak at midday and a physical peak at about 6pm to 8pm when most sporting records are broken.... the science of it is a bit mind boggling though.

Lisa78 · 26/04/2004 15:52

Me too, god knows what I am going to do when I go back to work in June - apparently they don't like you sleeping in works time.... bloody scandalous, can't you do anything these days!!! I have taken to a strong coffee straight after lunch with something a bit sugary, the two combined keep me awake - I'm at 99 but I am awake!

Aloha, let us know when the article is out - I did a bit about biorhythms for my degree, your article sounds really interesting. Clearly the physical peak is designed to assist us in getting home from work, dinner made and kids in bed, as quickly as possible, to enable prolonged mn-ing! Darwinism at its best!

Slinky · 26/04/2004 16:15

I always feel drowsy around 4pm - if I was to sit on the sofa now, I would be asleep

Particularly tired today as I got to bed about 12.15am, then DH woke me at 4.30am to say he was leaving for Paris (away until Thursday) and my alarm went off at 6.30am!

Evita · 26/04/2004 20:49

TW, I have it too. I really flag at that time and actually feel quite cold and run down too. I'm very selfish and remiss though. I get under the duvet with my novel and a hot chocolate and read and doze until dd wakes up. I don't lift a finger in the kitchen, I refuse to. Dd has a break and is refreshed and I need to be too.

So sleep, and enjoy!

GeorginaA · 26/04/2004 20:56

My sleep point is 3pm... pregnancy has exacerbated it, but even before I really struggle to get past that point in the day. I have to say, I usually go for the cup of caffeinated beverage boost if I can't get away with Cbeebies + nap.

bunny2 · 26/04/2004 20:59

Def avoid or cut down on carbs at lunch, especially refined ones such as white bread and pastry. They release sugar quickly into your bloodstream and so you get a big rise followed by a big fall which is why people often feel sleepy after lunch. You are not pg are you?

twiglett · 26/04/2004 21:22

message withdrawn

bunny2 · 26/04/2004 21:25

stick the tv on and have a snooze. I do most days.

carla · 26/04/2004 21:26

Sleeeeeeeep! Not sure my two would allow it, but big sister's children allowed it when the youngest was three! How did she do that

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