Should You Nap? A Simple Guide to Daytime Rest
A short nap can be a gift. A long, late nap can steal from the night. Here is how to nap well.
Photo by Florian Siedl on Unsplash
After a broken night, a nap can feel like the only way to get through the day. Naps can be helpful, but the way you nap matters.
Short is best
A short nap of about 10 to 20 minutes can leave you more alert without making you groggy. Longer naps often take you into deeper sleep, and waking from deep sleep can leave you foggy for a while.
Early is best
Try to nap before mid-afternoon. A late nap can reduce your sleep pressure, the natural tiredness that builds during the day and helps you fall asleep at night.
If you struggle to sleep at night
If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, many sleep experts suggest avoiding naps for a while, so all your sleep pressure is saved for the night. This can feel hard at first, but it often helps.
Rest without sleeping
If you need a pause but don't want to nap, lie down for ten minutes with your eyes closed and do some slow breathing. Many people find this restful without affecting the night.
When daytime sleepiness is a warning
If you often fall asleep without meaning to, feel very sleepy even after a full night, or fall asleep while driving, see a doctor. These can be signs of a sleep disorder that needs checking.
