Power napping

[spongebox1]

Any suggestions on how to go about getting fine of those so called power naps while waiting to get loaded? I'm naturally a high energy person but I really need to learn how to implement a nap into my schedule, I've heard many drivers mention taking a nap while they wait at a dock or while waiting to get unloaded, either way is there some secret I've yet to be told?

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[BigCat]

I close my curtain and lay on my side facing the back wall. If I lay facing the curtain I can't go to sleep.

 

[spongebox1]

I've tried that, I think its a mind thing, I can't seem to stop thinking about the freight or the dock workers or what happens if traffic is jacked up when I get moving or it could be this dam phone always in my hand!

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[Murraycroexp]

I have trouble napping sometimes too. It's the whole "turning off the brain" part. I use earplugs. Make it dark. And get horizontal on my bunk and make myself breathe slowly. It usually works if I KNOW that my freight will not be ready for at least an hour.


- Skipper of the Irish Rover.

 

[layoutshooter]

I learned to nap in basic training. I often nap while waiting on freight. One trick is not to plan to sleep. I just lay down and wait. I often just drift off.

 

[Slo-Ride]

For me all it takes is to turn on the TV and Im out.

 

[Murraycroexp]

For me all it takes is to turn on the TV and Im out.

I should try that. It's kind of a process with laptop, wifi or DVDs, etc. but TV works for me at home. Probably would on the road.


- Skipper of the Irish Rover.

 

[tenntrucker]

A little 20 to 30 min power nap does me a world of good, just have to focus your mind on something that calms you.

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[ATeam]

A blindfold may help. It is easier to slip one on than to go to the trouble of darkening the cab or sleeper. Get a good one, one that is comfortable to wear.

If my brain is racing and keeping me from going to sleep at night, I read. It only takes a few minutes to quiet things down and drift off.

 

[Monty]

You need to practice .... I used to get good naps for miles going down the highway!

Seriously, it is a learned process. If I decide for a nap, the moment my head hits the pillow I am asleep, same for going to bed at night. My wife is amazed at how quickly I can be asleep. But as mentioned above, if you "plan" on napping, it won't happen. Just let it wash over you ....

 

[tenntrucker]

You need to practice .... I used to get good naps for miles going down the highway!

Seriously, it is a learned process. If I decide for a nap, the moment my head hits the pillow I am asleep, same for going to bed at night. My wife is amazed at how quickly I can be asleep. But as mentioned above, if you "plan" on napping, it won't happen. Just let it wash over you ....

Same here, out like a light....I credit it to a clear conscience

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[21cExp]

I usually put it on cruise and climb in the back...

If unloaded and parked and thinking I should nap before that next long run, I often get a gentle breeze going in the back of the van, lay down, and play solitaire on my tablet. Usually makes me drift right off.

 

[Moot]

The trick is not to force yourself to take a nap or believe you need one, just lay down. If you fall asleep, great. If not, at least you got some rest weren't sitting in the driver's seat. When I'm done for the day, before going to bed I play a game or two of Scrabble on my computer. Great way to unwind.

 

[tenntrucker]

Layed down the other day for my 30min break, next thing I know its 50 min. later.

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[spongebox1]

Great tips everyone, I like the blindfold idea and the tips on keeping the mind from racing! We just recently went to full team two months ago and I'm still adjusting my sleep habits from a solo, I was able to squeeze out approx 45 min nap while waiting for this load!

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[Ragman]

I often just drift off.

That's just old age setting in.

 

[layoutshooter]

That's just old age setting in.

Or it could be "riggers".

 

[DollarSign]

All good points were said from everyone and I agree with them. One thing I would say is to say away from energy drinks and things that have caffeine in them. Ive pretty much have cut cokes and tea out all together. Ive never done those energy drinks, very bad for you.

 

[spongebox1]

All good points were said from everyone and I agree with them. One thing I would say is to say away from energy drinks and things that have caffeine in them. Ive pretty much have cut cokes and tea out all together. Ive never done those energy drinks, very bad for you.

I will admit I'm a bit of a caffeine addict, and I could not tell you the last time I went a day with out tea or pop all together, before I came on the road full time I drank a substantial amount of milk and juice, I think I might try and keep the pop intake down!

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[cheri1122]

I think Moot pegged it: if you don't feel able to sleep when the opportunity arises, then you probably don't need the sleep. A break from the driver's seat is a good thing, though, esp if you stretch out & close your eyes. Or close your eyes and do some stretches - making sure your codriver is safely out of your way, lol.