Every so often we don’t get enough sleep because we have to catch an early flight or simply because we stayed up too late. If we keep early hours, we need to take an afternoon nap the day before or go to bed at a reasonable hour. In reality we don’t do either.

In general, our body needs from 6 to 8 hours of sleep per day. If we sleep less and on a regular basis we feel drowsy during the day which cuts our performance and productivity in half.

It’s possible, however, to make up for the lost sleep with the help of breathing techniques and meditation. It doesn’t equal sleep, but it doesn’t mean you’re awake either. It’s a state of consciousness with deep relaxation. Sleep and meditation have similar effects on our general well-being: we feel rested afterwards. Yet, the latter does a little more than that. It offers mindful rest, plenty of health benefits and an improved quality of life.

And while it’s not always possible to snatch a nap during your workday, it’s much easier to get round to a short breathing practice. You can even use half of your lunch break for this. It’s better if you remain seated for this practice, since falling asleep is definitely not your intention.

Take deep long breaths while concentrating on a big ball of energy spreading through your entire body - from head to toes. With every inhale imagine you’re filled with light, and with every exhale let go of a sleepy feeling.

We have unlimited source of energy instilled in us. And those who turn to meditation practices, to aid their sleep, claim they need far less shuteye than they used to, and at the same time they feel more refreshed and rejuvenated. Even such a short practice will help you recharge your batteries and, in comparison with long hours of sleep, will leave you feeling far more energetic.