On how to deal with sleepiness

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by mwehrle, Feb 25, 2018.

  1. mwehrle

    mwehrle Light Load Member

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    Ogden, Utah
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    For those experienced drivers out there, how do you best deal with sleepiness behind the wheel?
     
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  3. sirjeff

    sirjeff Medium Load Member

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    I get out and do some pushups run around a bit and splash some snow in my face. And if that doesn't work, I'll park and have a snooze
     
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  4. skellr

    skellr Road Train Member

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    Think about something, keeping the mind active is IMO the biggest thing. Who/what is coming up behind you and whats going to happen when they pass? Whats going on in front of you? who is going to be where in the next minute and where will you be?

    Driving fast is ok to wake you up, but then again, all you can do is pay attention to the road and not much else. Maybe slowing down so you can look at whats around you will help.

    Eat small snacks frequently throughout the day so you don't get tired after eating. When you get hungry and then eat you won't have enough energy to digest the food and stay awake.
     
  5. De Trucker

    De Trucker Medium Load Member

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    First of all be well rested before driving. If you start getting sleepy keep your eyes moving. Don't stare for long periods of time.
    Sometimes shutting off the radio helps. Try and talk to someone on the phone. Overdose on coffee.
     
  6. WesternPlains

    WesternPlains Road Train Member

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    Getting good sleep makes a huge difference. Not just getting sleep. Need to get to REM sleep.
    Wear eye covers to block out any light. Ones on Amazon endorsed by Alaska Bears. :)
    Take Melatonin. It will do much to help you sleep deep. I take nowfoods brand. Good stuff.
     
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  7. Clyde07

    Clyde07 Heavy Load Member

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    Everyone’s different. Some say you must have an hour nap. For me, a 20-30 minute nap recharges and works wonders.
     
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  8. pmdriver

    pmdriver Road Train Member

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    Forget the caffeine drinks, drink plenty of water, breathe deep so more oxygen get in you, find a good ol hillbilly station on the radio .
     
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  9. buddyd157

    buddyd157 Road Train Member

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    if i recall an article i once read, regarding "quick naps", 20 minutes is about best. any longer and one can fall into a deeper sleep, and wake up moody.

    i'll try and find that article
     
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  10. buddyd157

    buddyd157 Road Train Member

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    The ideal length for a power nap varies from person to person, but somewhere between 10 and 20 minutes is the general recommendation . Any longer and deeper stages of sleep begin, which can lead to a zombie-like state of grogginess when it's time to wake up.

    How to Power Nap Like a Pro
     
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  11. Woodys

    Woodys Heavy Load Member

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    Tampa, FL
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    Play some good comedy tracks through the radio, call people on the phone (3 way convos can last for hours), 5 hour energy works wonders for me, get out an excersize for 10-20 mins.

    If all else fails, park it and go to sleep, screw the load, and wake up still alive and not in a ditch.
     
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