How To...
How to Fall Asleep in a Library:
As an undergrad, I learned quickly how to fall asleep in any random location. Never helped that my meds made sleeping a priority every few hours, so the library was a great place to be. Oh, and good headphones (mine are the wonderful Shure 535s and I will boast as much as you'd like me to ;) ) are a plus. Apple's earbuds never work in these situations.
Good luck and happy napping! Just have an energy drink nearby for that inevitable "ugh, not enough sleep!" feeling. It happens.
- Be tired. This is necessary and almost always the case.
- Find a decent spot. Soft chairs with ottomans are wonderful, couches even better but then you really are just being a hog. Soft chairs with a table nearby also work and, as a last resort, chairs at a desk.
- Deploy headphones and music of choice. Instrumentals usually work great.
- Use a hoodie, or other clothing/device, to cover your eyes from the lights. Lights are bad.
- Use the ottoman or table for feet; back of chair or desk for head. Get as comfortable as possible and, for best results, work at a 45 degree angle. This is easiest when you are small (like me!).
- Turn on your alarm if need be, cell phones are optimal. Put the alarm on vibrate and hold it close to a sensitive area of your body. Through years of research, I've found that the breast can be a great place to hold your cell phone: the vibrations from the cell phone, particularly when placed over the full center of the breast, making it really easy to wake up on the first vibration, even in a deep sleep. It also isn't as obvious as other parts of your body. Check correct time, fold your arms if possible to protect the fact that you are cupping your breast, and close your eyes.
- Sleep. Wake up when alarm goes off and allow for only one snooze.
- Wake up, get back to work/school. Make sure you have all possessions with you.
- If you are at a desk, hold the cell phone close to your chest as comfortably as possible, usually in the center. You don't want the vibration to be against the desk either. Or just fold your arms, place the cell phone on your shoulder (or near your ear), and rest. This can cause problems with the back so sleeping on a desk is only for the very tired or most experienced at napping in the worst locations.
As an undergrad, I learned quickly how to fall asleep in any random location. Never helped that my meds made sleeping a priority every few hours, so the library was a great place to be. Oh, and good headphones (mine are the wonderful Shure 535s and I will boast as much as you'd like me to ;) ) are a plus. Apple's earbuds never work in these situations.
Good luck and happy napping! Just have an energy drink nearby for that inevitable "ugh, not enough sleep!" feeling. It happens.