‘The Little Things That Make a Big Difference’ is an article series outlining weight loss and diet interventions that may seem insignificant, but can make a huge difference to the success of your diet plan.
Coffee naps
‘Coffee’ and ‘nap’ – two words that really don’t seem to go together, right? Well, what if I told you that you could change the way you feel every day and keep your energy levels up by combining these two things? (Remember, when you feel good and energised you eat better, so this is a weight-loss tip, too.)
A coffee nap is just that. You drink a strong cup of coffee (preferably black and unsweetened), and then lie down for a 30-minute nap. The coffee won’t have kicked in yet, so you’ll get some rest until it does, and then you’ll wake up easily, because the coffee will help you.
Twenty to thirty minutes is a good length of time to sleep for in the day, because you won’t enter a deep sleep, so you’ll be able to get back with the programme easily, while still getting the benefits of a proper brain-shutdown.
Remember, a nap won’t cure you of sleepless nights, but it can help you get some rest when you really need it. And we all know that good REST is important for our bodies to function optimally. That means burning calories, using energy and brain function.
When and where to nap?
In terms of when to nap, the middle of the day (say between 13h00 and 15h00) is an ideal time, as you will be tired by bed time. Most of us are still at work at midday, but if you’re able to sneak in a few winks in your car during the lunch hour, you’ll be far more productive in the second half of the day. Or if you have your own office, close the door, and put up a ‘do not disturb’ sign to catch 40 winks at your desk.
For those who are lucky enough to work from home, allow yourself a little nap in the middle of the day, on your bed or the couch but be sure to set your alarm, and get straight back to work after the nap time.
While coffee naps aren’t something EVERYONE is able to do, they are a huge help for increasing your energy levels if you are able to take a nap in the middle of the day.
If you’re someone who likes to go to gym after work, a coffee nap can help give you that extra motivation you need to get to gym and give it your ALL later in the day.
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Take a look at the articles below for more information on the little things that make a big difference to your weight-loss goals:
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Condiments are calories too
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Best restaurant strategy
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Up your NEAT score
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: The biggest secret
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Don’t skip meals
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: General check-ups
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Run! As soon as you can
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Change your favourite food
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Your Friends
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Your attitude
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Dealing with awkward situations
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: The right mindset
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: When it’s not worth the calories
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Only eat when you’re hungry
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Question your habits
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Learn to say the magic word
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Timing is everything
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: A little bit less
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Use your feet
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Eat fruit
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Take the stress out of your diet
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: How to make caffeine work for you
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Cheat a little every now-and-then
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Grab ‘n go meals
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Fast food?
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Give yourself a challenge
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Take a break from food
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Work hard, rest hard
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Fibre for the win
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Eat protein early
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Be “that guy/girl
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: What if you have a sweet tooth?
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Avoid BOREDOM at all costs!
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: No alcohol before bed
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Downsizing
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Quality control
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Drink water like a real adult
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: The real ‘breakfast of champions’
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Treat limits
- Little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: No milk, no sugar, thanks
- The little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Comfy sleep
- The little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Time
- The little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Vitamin pills
- The little things that make a big difference to your weight loss: Black coffee & veggies
While All4Women endeavours to ensure health articles are based on scientific research, health articles should not be considered as a replacement for professional medical advice. Should you have concerns related to this content, it is advised that you discuss them with your personal healthcare provider.
