The Benefits of an Afternoon Nap

Taking an afternoon nap isn't just for children anymore. Studies show that taking a midday nap is good for your health. In fact, indulging in a midday nap may reduce the risk of death from coronary heart disease according to a study by researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health and the University of Athens Medical School in Greece. Researchers have pointed out that other factors such as diet and physical activity may be involved.

Although daily naps offer the best chance of benefits even occasional naps can be beneficial as well. Afternoon naps can help to relieve stress, improve alertness, mood and productivity. Napping can also help to sharpen the senses, improve memory and overall well being.

In a time when many people don't often sleep at night due to work schedules or other reasons napping becomes almost necessary to ensure proper rest. People often fall short of the typical eight hours a night so taking an afternoon nap can act as a supplement to help the mind and body receive the proper rest that is needed.

A nap should be about thirty minutes long. Although this time period may vary from individual to individual with some people only napping for fifteen minutes and others preferring a longer nap thirty minutes is recommended in order to be beneficial. Napping for too long can leave one feeling tired and groggy. If you cannot nap just sitting and resting quietly can have its benefits too.

Napping has become serious business, so serious in fact that some workplaces have jumped on the bandwagon. More workplaces are including sleep space such as sleep pods or snooze suites where employees can reap the benefits of a midday nap. It gives sleeping on the job a whole new meaning. But actually employers feel that by allowing employees to take a nap it can be beneficial to productivity rates. Employees are less stressed and more alert after taking a nap. Snooze time equals more efficient work time.

Getting into the habit of napping can be good for your health both physically and mentally. It is also helpful to try and take your daily naps around the same time each day. By doing so, you signal your body to relax which can help to release stress and tension from your body. Although taking an afternoon nap may have added benefits for your health you should still make sure you get adequate sleep at night. If you burn the midnight oil often then only take an afternoon nap occasionally you'll only defeat the purpose. You can have your cake and eat it too by getting a good night's sleep then enjoying your midday nap.