Catching a quick wink, the Napolean way

My visits to the architect were a regular feature when we were building our house. The meeting used to take long, and in between, while we were engaged with his associates, he would disappear for a good 30 minutes on some pretext before reappearing to move on with the work. Having faced this a few times, my curiosity got the better of me and I was determined to find out where he goes. It was not difficult to find out since it was a small office. He would go for a nap.

He reminded me of French military leader Napoleon Bonaparte. His officers claimed Napoleon had the amazing ability to energise himself within just half an hour. The Napoleon in my family is my husband. He refuses to lie down during the day. Instead, he will ensconce himself on the couch and snatch those 40 winks. And off he will go, back to work.

I remember when my mother used to come back from school she wanted that small window of total peace. Anyone who dared disturb her in that half hour had to face the music, which was certainly not pleasant to the ears.

I too realise the value of a siesta after being on my feet since morning. But, of late, a quick catnap has been eluding me. It is in those 20 minutes that all phone calls come or people selling products or the courier man land up or a neighbour needs a helping hand. I’ve been changing my time of having that bit of shut eye but in vain. My maid peers through the bedroom door, asking why I’m sleeping at an odd hour. I spring into action lest I be labelled a sloth. I envy my labrador who doesn’t move an inch even at the sound of heavy pounding.

People measure the right time of sleep according to their own pattern. If they are always on the go, they will come and disturb you anytime, and also make you feel guilty about being so lazy. Do they not understand that even cinema halls have realised the importance of putting your feet up, for a while? They have introduced adjustable couches for weary souls. Salons give you a rejuvenating experience by treating you in a peaceful ambience. Even yoga has certain asanas to relax your muscles for a while so that you can get back to the routine with greater vigour.

Artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci followed the Uberman cycle of sleep. It included a 20-minute nap every four hours. If I can go back in history, I would love to shake his hand and ask him how he managed it. Here I am, seeking those 20 minutes of snooze that never come by. I wonder if I can put up a ‘do not disturb’ board on my bedroom door. And another one: ‘Do not judge’, for prying eyes.

I’ve now understood the meaning of the expression, stealing a little sleep. No one gives it to you. You have to grab it or steal it.

SEEKING THOSE 20 MINUTES OF SNOOZE, I WONDER IF I CAN PUT UP A ‘DO NOT DISTURB’ BOARD ON THE DOOR