National Public Sleeping Day

Written By Connie Hack

Sleep Advisor

7 November 2023 5 min read

We can confirm that National Public Sleeping Day is exactly what you think it would be. A day to take a nap wherever you may be – yes, even in public.

If you find yourself getting tired on the last day of this month, you will be pleased to know that public sleeping will be acceptable as it is Nation Public Sleeping Day. So, if you feel like taking a nap in the airport or in a waiting room then go ahead and nap – we won't be judging. Everyone has had a time when they took a power nap in public or have been extremely close to falling asleep. This day is basically a free pass to snooze in a public place.

Introduction to National Public Sleeping Day

National Public Sleeping Day started in 2011 and it is a day that encourages people to sleep outside. We all know how important sleep is and sometimes our nighttime sleep is not enough so we turn to a nap as a last resort.

Obviously, it is better to keep to your routine of sleeping during the night but those who do shift work will have more difficulty. This is because the human body cannot adapt to different hours of work and it can be impossible to sleep at night when that is when you work. Therefore, National Public Sleeping Day is the perfect time to make the most of sleeping outside without any judgement. Public sleeping has become a necessity for some to get the 8 hours of sleep they need.

Benefits of public sleeping

When you have had a lack of sleep, it can be difficult to find the time to squeeze in a good nap. So, why add more stress trying to find time at home when you can find the time while you are out and about? When you have not had enough sleep and need help with a little grogginess, a nap is a good solution.

Endless choice of places

There are so many public places where you can easily fall asleep. For example, in the cinema, on the beach, in shopping malls, at school, or on public transportation. When we talk about public sleeping, we don't necessarily mean on a park bench. Wherever you end up and wherever you get comfortable, you can simply have a nap to reset.

Boosts mood and thinking

Sleeping in public can make you feel replenished and enhance your mood. Also, it can help to promote your sleep quality and it can be stress-relieving. Sleeping outside is said to improve motor skills, as well as your ability to think. So, if you consumed a lot of information then you should take a quick nap to retain all you have learnt.

Cool environment

It is recommended to sleep in a cold room, so it makes sense to sleep in a cool outdoor environment for the same benefits. Being outside can be cooler than inside so you may find it easier to fall asleep.

Tips for sleeping comfortably in public

• If and when you choose to sleep in public, make sure you plan for a short nap because longer naps can make you drowsy so you will want to be able to continue your day.
• Take a nap with a few friends. Having a group nap avoids any embarrassment if it is the first time sleeping in public. Not that you should be embarrassed – sometimes you have just got to take a nap.
• Bring sleeping essentials that keep you comfy. If you are really prepared, you can bring sleeping bags or blankets. For those who want to take a nap on their commute to work, you could bring a neck pillow – especially for transport when you are sitting upright.

Planning ahead to ensure a good sleep

There are different types of naps that vary in duration. You will need to choose wisely which one you need to have, to feel the benefits. Once you work out what nap you can fit in with the plans for the rest of the day, make sure you stick to it. The last thing you want is to feel worse after your nap.

Power nap

A power nap lasts 10 to 20 minutes and it can be enough to give you a burst of energy to stay awake for the rest of the day.

The hangover nap

This one lasts around half an hour and can leave you feeling ‘hungover' (confused about things). However, this will soon calm down and you can feel the same benefits of a power nap.

The brainiac nap

A brainiac nap lasts for about an hour and is the deepest sleep. It is the best nap after studying or before a big test. You will find it easier to remember the facts and information you have studied, even if you initially feel sleepy after waking up.

The California King

The California King lasts 90 minutes, so it is the longest of naps. With this one, you will experience a full cycle of sleep, including REM or the dream stage. It will avoid the ‘hangover' and improve creative thinking and motor memory.

Conclusion

National Public Sleeping Day is simply a day that everyone needs to know about. Public sleeping should not be frowned upon, we should be encouraging it. When you know a nap could solve your problems, there is nothing worse than forcing yourself to stay awake. Find somewhere comfortable and catch some Z's. Make sure you don't have any valuables on you or if you do, that they are not in plain sight.

Make sure you do not nap too late in the day because you don't want to then struggle to stay asleep at night. You will need a good night's sleep that evening, as well as a good nap in public.

References & resources:

• Happy Days 365
• National Day Calendar

Recommended reading:

• Benefits of Afternoon Naps
• Is Daytime Sleep Good or Bad?

About the author

Connie Hack

As someone who is a combination sleeper, I have found it difficult to get products to suit my sleep style. So, I am always on the lookout for new products to try and have tested my fair share of sleep essentials to make sure you can have the best night’s sleep.