The Ultimate Power Nap for Stress Relief, Restoration, and Relaxation

If you’ve ever wondered what exactly the NuCalm PowerNap is, what it does, how to use it, and what to expect when you use it once or long-term; then this article is for you. To understand NuCalm PowerNap (one of six different patented neuroacoustic software journeys that enable you to access one of your five different brain waves) we will share what NuCalm is, and the function PowerNap fulfills in accessing your brain waves when desired.

What is NuCalm?

NuCalm is a patented neuroscience innovation with the power to transform your mental and physical state at your discretion. Accessible through the mobile app, NuCalm’s neuroacoustic technology offers specialized journeys tailored to each of the five brain wave states. Simply select the NuCalm journey corresponding to your desired brain wave state and follow the guided instructions. While some journeys may require an eyemask, high-quality headphones, and a comfortable reclined position, others can be experienced with just a portable speaker.

What does the PowerNap neuroacoustic software do?

Like all NuCalm journeys, PowerNap is a patented neuroscience technology that uses complex physics, including a pitch and frequency matrix and non-linear oscillating algorithms to safely deliver signals to the brain that the brain follows - called frequency following response. NuCalm uses music as a distraction for the listener to create an enjoyable experience while the underlying neuroacoustic software presents the brain with signals that gently guide the brain to a desired outcome, like a tuning fork. PowerNap is a concentrated version of Rescue, NuCalm’s foundational journey, for activating the parasympathetic nervous system. PowerNap and Rescue slow down brain waves into Alpha and then hold them in an oscillating pattern of Theta (4Hz – 7Hz). Theta is known as the healing zone because when your brain is in theta, the cells do their maintenance and clean toxins out of the cells, and the mitochondria (cell’s energy source) is restored. Theta activity is associated with light REM sleep, dreaming, meditation, deep restoration, and the replenishment of hormone reservoirs. Alpha activity is associated with relaxation, greater awareness, and the production of serotonin, a mood-balancing hormone. The Alpha-Theta crossover state is a combination of both Alpha and Theta brain wave frequencies, where you experience hypnogogic dissociation (loss of time and space), and all the therapeutic benefits of cellular restoration can take place. PowerNap and Rescue predictably guide brain wave frequencies to the healing zone every time you use them.

During a PowerNap journey, the brain may dip into Delta, especially if the person is sleep-deprived, but NuCalm’s main goal is to get the person into a state right above deep sleep. This is the optimal recovery zone of the mind and body, and spending enough time in this state every day is essential to our health. This is the state where the parasympathetic nervous system replenishes our body’s resources that are depleted from stress, fear, anxiety, and worry, which causes sympathetic overload. Since each PowerNap journey is 20 minutes, you will have less time in theta than if you use a Rescue journey (Rescue journeys are 30-120 minutes in length). While PowerNap is a great option when you are short on time, please prioritize your recovery and use PowerNap or the longest Rescue journey your schedule allows for maximum time in theta, the recovery zone.

What do I need for a PowerNap journey?

  • Access to the NuCalm mobile app (there are many subscription options)
  • Noise-canceling headphones for maximum sound quality
  • Light-blocking mask to eliminate visual stimulation
  • A comfortable, safe place to recline (bed, recliner, train or airplane seat, etc.)

What will it feel like during a PowerNap journey?

Typically, people describe their PowerNap journey as being aware of their surroundings while simultaneously feeling like they are in a deep sleep with slowed breathing, a heaviness to the body, a lack of awareness of time, and a wandering mind that is intermittently aware of the Rescue track sounds.

How do I know if it’s working?

After your PowerNap journey:

  • You will feel a sense of calm and peace of mind
  • Your body will feel balanced
  • Your mind will feel clear and energized
  • You will feel an energy boost
  • You will sleep better tonight
  • If you monitor your personal data, you will note an increase in HRV (link to blog) after a PowerNap journey and improved sleep quality over time.

Why are there only 20-minute PowerNap journey time lengths? What is the difference and the same between them?

PowerNap is a concentrated version of Rescue which means it utilizes a similar formula to activate the parasympathetic nervous system for guidance to the theta brain wave state. PowerNap reliably and predictably guides brain wave frequencies to the healing zone every time you use it. Additionally, PowerNap interweaves some gamma guidance at the very end of the journey. This helps provide an energy boost which can have a positive impact on your mood and motivation levels.

PowerNap protocols

For energy

  • Use PowerNap when you need a reset or boost. Many people use PowerNap to get over the “afternoon slump” or first thing in the morning if you wake up tired.

Instead of Rescue

  • Since PowerNap is a concentrated version of Rescue, you can use PowerNap for acute stress, regular stress management, physical recovery, and mental and physical performance if you are short on time. Please keep in mind you will have less time in the theta brain wave state, the healing zone, with PowerNap 20 instead of a Rescue journey. While PowerNap is still beneficial and provides reliable and predictable results, the longer the duration in theta, the more recovery is possible.

Regular stress management

  • Similar to other healthy habits like exercise and nutrition, regular maintenance is required for overall results. Many community members use Rescue, PowerNap (a concentrated version of Rescue), or FlowState daily or multiple times a week for regular stress management. Stress is a constant ebb and flow part of life so regular, effective stress management can help manage acute events, build stress resiliency, and maintain your overall health and wellness.
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