There is nothing like a good siesta. When when putting our toddlers to bed the other day, I was lucky enough to squeeze a nap in too. Normally there’s something which needs to be done, but this time I couldn’t wait to jump into bed.

I slept for 3 hours and felt sensational! It was 4:15pm by the time I awoke, and amazingly the house was silent; something that’s usually completely foreign with 2 young children.

I lay in bed and thought of all the times I’ve placed my head down during times of the year when the weeks have been full. Whether it be a 20 minute power nap, a short 5 minute refresher as my husband can easily do, or a deep ninety minute snooze. I rest when I need to, and I’m not ashamed to say so.

I’m naturally a morning person, and without an alarm I’m happily awake between 5.40am-6.20am. When I’m up and out the door, I’m straight into some form exercise. A siesta later helps me fuel the second part of the day – not only in my role as a mother, but also a productive woman who is working in media and building a business. Resting replenishes me and I’ve learnt not to feel guilty about it. I’m more efficient and ultimately happier, as I’ve listened to my body. You can still be a woman of capacity with siestas!

There are no medals or prizes for boasting that you don’t rest. Ladies, it’s never a competition. We are all doing the best jobs we can of looking after our families and ourselves. Be a happy, patient mum and not a tired one. Whenever you can take a breath, have a nap and refresh.

In 2010 a study of women between the ages of 22-50 who have naps more than twice a week, showed the 2 greatest differences were increased memory and a surge in creativity – something that I think a lot of us would like to have!

There is nothing wrong with lying down whenever you can or wherever that may be (couch, floor, cot – seriously, anything goes) to have a rest. If you’re confined by the office, get outside for lunch and have a nap in the park, even for 10 minutes. It’s so important to fit them in when you need to and when your body tells you. Your body is your engine. Treat it the best you can, because you’ll never get another one.

Author: Elka Whalan

Elka Whalan is a much loved and recognized member of the Australian media landscape, both for her athletic career, and her media commentary. A dual Olympian, Elka is now a mother of two young children and can be seen regularly on Sunrise and The Morning Show. Recently Elka also became an Ambassador for Healthy Bones Australia and REXONA, and is passionate about keeping fit, healthy, and keeping the romance alive in her marriage.