Napping, Does a Body Good

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Do you ever feel like a hamster on a wheel, running and running and never getting anywhere? Hurry up. Get this done. Go here. Go there. Eat on the run. Keep on eye on the clock. Tag, you’re it! Don’t be late. Don’t waste time. Time is money. Be productive. Don’t make a mistake. Why wasn’t this done yesterday?

This is the culture in the United States, the cliché microwave society. It hasn’t always been this way, only for the last 50-75 years with the last 25 years becoming increasingly worse. Too many Americans have inadequate amounts of sleep and would benefit from better sleep. Is it any wonder there are more incidences of cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity than ever? Naps can help. (Researchers have noted fewer heart-related deaths in cultures where a nap, or siesta are the norm.),

Taking a nap is much more common and culturally accepted in many other countries around the world. It is the industrialized countries that frown on an afternoon nap. Priority on productivity creating a 24 hour society also creates a society that is sleep deprived and less healthy.

Increased alertness, elevated mood, improved memory and cognitive function, and reduced stress are some benefits derived from napping. A power nap of 15-30 minutes can make a world of difference in your productivity. (A tip if you have an afternoon meeting, drink some coffee then take a 20-30 minute nap before your meeting. It takes coffee about 20-30 minutes to take effect and you will have greater clarity for your meeting.)

45 minute plus naps can lead to grogginess because of the depth of your level of sleep, so it’s best if you need to and can take a longer nap to plan for about 90 minutes. This way you can go through an entire sleep cycle.

The times mentioned are to get you in the ballpark. Each of us is different. Each of us have our own sleep deficiencies only known to ourselves, and you do need to become familiar with your own body rhythms. Are you a lark or an owl?

The bottom line is to recognize that need for a nap is not unacceptable or lazy. It is normal and beneficial, and it will actually help you to be productive. It is also better for your over all health, and aren’t you worth it?