The Nap Time Hustle

When the baby finally crashes out, I've got a to do list nearly a mile long staring me down. I have a very busy 10 month old daughter and nap time is bit of a wild card. Will it be 15 minutes or 2 hours? Your guess is as good as mine. And due to such unpredictability,  I feel the need to maximize the time. Load the dishwasher (but try not to make too much noise), switch over laundry, fold laundry, water plants, find something to eat, plan dinner, fold diapers, read something inspiring, send that email, take a shower. You get the idea and I imagine, can relate. 

Instead of diving head first into the hustle like a crazy lady, I make a point to tune in with meditation. I spend the first ten minutes of nap time in meditation and man, what a difference it makes. By taking those few minutes to focus on my breath, I am calmer, react more mindfully to stressors and feel more at ease. 

It's a small thing that makes an enormous difference. If ten minutes is too much, start with one minute. Or 30 seconds. Or 10 seconds. You can and will build up to longer stretches. Whatever feels doable to you, simply use that time to focus on your breath. With each inhale, notice as the stress melts away and with each exhale, allow the sensation of peace to wash over your soul.