This thermoformed light blocking eye mask from Go Travel comes with ear plugs which are great for blocking out any hustle and bustle when trying to fall asleep during the day. The mask features two domed recesses to minimise contact with the eye, meaning that when you wake up after a nap you’ll find your eye make-up intact – perfect for if you need to jump on a Zoom call after your midday nap. An elasticated headband features a non-snag Velcro fastening which is adjustable to ensure a comfortable fit and avoids a tell-tale strap mark in your hair! This headband also includes an integrated ear plug holder and the eye mask comes with a hygienic drawstring carry pouch, making it easy to keep track of each element of this sleep enabling kit and helping you make the most of your lunchtime nap window.
Different Kinds of Naps
Researchers at King’s College London and Ipsos MORI found 63% of Brits experienced less or worse sleep during the pandemic. Sleep deprivation takes a toll on your immune system by increasing inflammatory molecules known as cytokines and stress hormones, leaving you open to infection. With the threat of a second wave on the horizon and at a time where financial and social stresses are prevalent, supplementing your sleep with a nap could help cytokines and stress hormone levels return to normal, making managing stress and maintaining a healthy immune system more achievable. Previously, a midday nap would have been impractical for many Brits but new CIPD research shows employers expect the pandemic to lead to a long-term shift in how people work, with the proportion of people working from home regularly expected to increase to 37%, compared to 18% before the pandemic. Working from home provides the perfect situation for a siesta, but it isn't as simple as just laying down and falling asleep.
The key to waking up refreshed is all about timing. There are different types of naps, each with their own benefits. So, what are you waiting for? Put on your Shaped Eye Mask, pop in the ear plugs and give yourself a boost with one of these:
The Optimum Power Nap (15-20 mins)
Sleeping for 15-20 minutes keeps you in the lightest stage of sleep, making it easier to get up and go. Great for improving motor skills, such as typing, and helping improve your efficiency and accuracy, this should be the go-to nap for anyone needing a quick energy and mood boost.
Slow Wave Sleep (30-60 mins)
Once you get past the 30 minute mark, your brain starts to head towards deep sleep. At this point, your short-term memory is converted to long-term memory, which makes it easier to retain new information – great if you're studying something or have a new skill to learn. It’s also prime time for boosting your decision making skills.
Full REM Sleep (60-90 mins)
As you approach the 90 minute mark, you’ll experience a full REM cycle. This plays a key role in making new brain connections and is useful for solving creative problems and reinforcing memory. While finding more than an hour to nap during the day may prove difficult in most working days, if you really need a boost then this nap can be a great tool.
