By Jeanette M. Pintar - with inspiration from Misty

If sun filtered through the windows, Misty was sure to bask in it. The light would warm her fur and make her soft white whiskers glow - along with my heart from seeing her so content. Misty just loved napping in the sun! Come to think of it, she loved napping in the shade, too. On cloudy days, Misty favored snuggling with me. Who was I to complain about the purring little fuzz ball nestled in my lap, asleep within a heartbeat?

Misty had perfected the art of napping - anywhere. When she first began to trust me, she'd fall asleep on my knees, then roll right over, fully expectant of me to catch her and keep her from falling to the ground! In later years she practiced yoga in her sleep, stretching into the most precarious positions. Sometimes she'd have all four paws in the air, each one at a varying angle, positioned strangely different than the rest.

Misty's art of napping kept her healthy and clear minded. I began to join her for 15 - 20 minute cat naps after lunch in an effort to balance my glucose levels. It's remarkable how refreshed I felt. Amazingly, the troubles that vexed me before those 40 winks somehow worked themselves out during my mini sleep sessions. Napping is a great way to reprogram a day - especially if it has been stressful. Awakening after a short fifteen to twenty minutes feels like beginning a new day. Not everyone has the luxury of working from home and greeting their bed during the lunch hour, but you can close your eyes for two minutes at your desk. Or bring an egg-timer or mini alarm clock to snooze in your car for ten minutes. Or take a blanket or lounge chair to a nearby park, either during lunch or immediately following work.

Misty definitely had the right idea on this one! And contrary to popular belief, you don't have to be a baby or grand parent to take a siesta.

Remember: Everyday offers the perfect opportunity to nap and refresh yourself.

--- © Jeanette M. Pintar, inspired by Misty