Sleepless in Seattle, Catnapping in China

Throughout the trip, we have had some long travel periods and decent gaps between programs that are the perfect length for napping. Of course, one could choose to be “productive.” They could pass the time by talking, reading a book, getting work done… or, they could choose perhaps the most beneficial activity of all: sleeping. During the seven total hours on the bus today, there was ample time to catch up on rest.

While travelling, it is key to stay rested. The recommended average amount of sleep generally for adults ages 18 to 64 is between seven and nine hours. It can be tricky to keep to that schedule when you are jetlagged, especially if you need to be waking up early. Putting yourself on a schedule is important to adjusting quickly, but that also means you might not be sleeping as much as you’re used to.

Getting a good night’s sleep also helps to bolster your immune system. This is extremely important when travelling because you will likely be exposed to a vast variety of germs and need the extra support. Also, while we have been in China, it has been very cold, making us even more prone to sickness.

Lastly, sleeping has been shown to have an effect on memory and thinking processes. Many believe that sleep acts as a platform for your brain to organize the things that have happened to you that day. So, if you want to make the most of a travelling experience, I’d recommend staying rested. Also, who doesn’t love a good nap!