The Best Way to Take a Nap
The US population is becoming more and more sleep deprived as time goes on. Due to hectic schedules, the daily work routine, and stress, Americans seem to be losing what used to be a good night’s rest. There are many tactics one can use when trying to restore their body from lack of sleep. Getting into a sleep routine, exercise and eating the right foods all help one to get a healthier amount of rest at night. Another alternative for many is napping. Although taking a nap does not make up for the sleep loss a person may be experiencing, it does help to improve and restore performance, mood and alertness.
Napping occurs in all types of situations and lifestyles. Some people may have a habit at taking a nap at a certain time each day, while others may plan for their naps. If you know that you have a long night ahead of wakefulness ahead of you, you may plan a nap during the day to help you stay up later. Additionally, some people need to take naps in emergency situations where they may feel tired behind the wheel of a car. If you cannot continue to be a part of an activity you are engaged in due to extreme tiredness, stop what you are doing and take a nap! In each of these situations, taking a nap may help many people get through their days in an easier manner.
But do you know how you should be napping? Amount of time spent napping, environment, and the time of day all play an important role when getting the best quality nap. Here are some tips that you can use for your next napping endeavor:
1. Shorter naps are better. If your goal is to become more alert during the day, the best amount of time for napping is 20-30 minutes. A short nap will leave you feeling refreshed and will approve performance without leaving you with a feeling of grogginess. It also won’t hurt your ability to fall asleep later that evening.
2. Make your environment a nap haven. Where you take a nap plays a big role in how effective it will be in re-energizing your body and mind. When you want to doze off smoothly, make sure there is nothing in the room that can interrupt you. Try to find a place to lay down where there is little light or external noises. Make sure the room temperature is comfortable for your nap. Don’t just spend time in bed to relax, catch at least 20 minutes of sleep!
3. Take your naps in the middle of the day. If you wake up in the morning and plan to nap 3 hours later, you will not be successful in falling asleep. Try to take a nap midday, when you have been up for awhile. But make sure that you keep it early enough so that your nap does not interfere with your bedtime routine.
Napping is beneficial in increasing awareness, alertness, and enhancing performance. Do you find yourself napping often? If so, tell us about your napping habits below!
