The Benefits of Power Napping

We've all had the feeling. You're trying to get out a report or cram for a final and suddenly you feel like you're just too tired to go on for one more second. So you grab a cup of coffee or a caffeine-laden energy drink, hoping it will revive you.

 

It turns out there's a more effective and productive way to stay alert and do a good job - taking a nap. Napping for just 20 to 30 minutes can help improve your alertness, performance and mood. It reduces mistakes and accidents, too.

 

That snooze can also help you in other ways. A recent Harvard study found that regular napping (three times a week) lowered the risk of dying from heart disease by 37 percent. This study is preliminary, but could mean that napping is as heart-healthy as lowering cholesterol, eating a healthy diet or exercising.

 

What's your napping style?

There are different types of naps taken for different reasons:

• Planned (or preparatory) naps are often taken when you know you'll be staying up later than usual. You take the nap to store up energy, before you actually get sleepy.
• Emergency naps may be the kind you take in the middle of working or driving. You suddenly feel tired and cannot (and should not in the case of driving) continue with the activity.
• Habitual naps are those that you take at the same time every day.

It's a good idea to nap:

• For the right amount of time. Taking a 20- to 30-minute nap can give you the alertness you need in the short term. Also, it won't leave you feeling groggy or make it hard for you to fall asleep at night.
• In the right place. Choose a space that is: Restful, a comfortable temperature and without a lot of noise or light
• At the right time. Don't nap too late in the day because it may make it harder for you to fall asleep at your regular bedtime.

There can be a downside to napping, however. You may feel groggy and a bit confused when you wake up from a nap. This feeling usually lasts for a few minutes to half an hour. If you have to get right back to work, it could be a problem. Other than that, napping seems to be a great way to give yourself a lift. The next time you find your head nodding and your eyes closing, you may want to look for a cot rather than a coffee.

 

Source : Healthatoz