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Napping. Are you doing it right? Are you doing it at all?
When you get quality sleep, the quality of your waken hours reflect it. Some benefits of sleep generally include reduced stress, mood regulation, a boost in the immune system and improved cognitive skills. According to SleepFoundation.org, the best time to nap is at least eight hours before your normal bedtime, which is eight hours after you wake up if you’re getting the recommended eight hours of sleep per day.
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Let the record state: It’s not just for kids! There’s no shame in napping but as an adult, the when and where matters a bit. Naps aren’t necessary for productivity, but if it’s a part of your livelihood, here are some do’s and don’t’s to setting the mood for the perfect nap.
The Best Way To Take A Nap
DO: Set alarms and plan a designated nap time to help regulate your body.
DON’T: Sleep over 60 minutes. Most experts recommend 20-30 minute cat naps to avoid deep sleep that results in grogginess and disrupts your nighttime routine.
DO: Sleep in a quiet, uninterrupted space.
DON’T: Sleep in loud or distracting areas where your nap will be interrupted. Teasing your biological clock throws off circadian rhythms in your body that affect your physical and mental mobility. You won’t get the energy you’re seeking in the moment and you’ll likely be less productive.
DO: Take your nap outside of your bedroom.
DON’T: Take your nap in bed. Getting too comfortable for such a short period of time may trick your body in believing it’s time to call it a night. This can throw off your whole day.
DID YOU KNOW: If you’re a midday coffee drinker, experts say drinking a cup of coffee before you lay down will allow the caffeine to work while you sleep. When you wake up, the stimulants of the coffee are enhanced.
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The Do’s and Don’ts of Adult Power Napping was originally published on elev8.com
