Benefits of Naps

Often we feel sleepy after lunch. But many people find it difficult or not accustomed to taking naps. In fact, napping can provide various benefits for the body. Sleeping during the day is often confronted with the stigma of being lazy or lacking enthusiasm at work, but that is not entirely true. It is precisely taking a nap can increase one's productivity.

Benefits of Napping on the Body

If you think napping is only beneficial for babies, children, the elderly, or those who are sick, then you should think again. There are various benefits of naps that are believed to affect the body positively in adults. Among others are:

• Relaxation.
• Reduces fatigue.
• Increase concentration and alertness.
• Improve mood.
• Improve memory, performance, including faster reactions, reduce the possibility of accidents, errors, and confusion. Other studies have shown that the benefits of napping are also felt by night shift workers.

A study was conducted to compare three ways to deal with fatigue during the day, namely by increasing the hours of sleep at night, with naps, and by consuming caffeine. Apparently, napping is the most effective way and has the same effect as consuming caffeine.

When is a nap needed?

Adults tend to experience lack of sleep, this is mainly because they have to work for long periods of time, or because rest periods at night are disrupted. Because of that condition, adults are considered more in need of naps. Naps are an effective way to relax and restore energy. But some people with certain conditions are not advised to take a nap, for example people with conditions:

• Frequent sleep disorders

Short naps generally will not affect rest periods at night, but for those who experience insomnia or sleep disturbance, napping can actually worsen sleep disturbance at night.

• Sleep inertia

It is feeling confused and dizzy / dizzy after waking up from sleep. People with this condition are not advised to take naps.

Estimating the Ideal Time

Apparently not everyone can feel comfortable during a nap. Some people feel that napping makes sleeping more difficult at night, while others are not accustomed to napping. Utilizing a nap does not mean you have to sacrifice sleep at night. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the following things.

• Pay attention to the time period

Naps for too long periods are not recommended. Setting aside about 20-30 minutes is enough to avoid sleep inertia, which is a feeling of dizziness after waking up that is difficult to disappear.

• Make a plan

Delaying a nap until it's too sleepy can make you uncomfortable, even dangerous. For example when you drive a vehicle. In addition, by planning a regular nap time, you can get used to sleep and wake up faster.

• Estimate caffeine intake

It takes some time for caffeine to take effect after consumption. For night shift workers, taking a nap plus consuming caffeine at night while working can increase concentration.

• Choose the right moment

The best time for a nap is 14.00-15.00. Most likely this is when you feel sleepy after lunch. Naps at this time are less likely to interfere with your night's sleep.

Utilizing a nap does not hurt, especially if conditions allow. If you can divide your time, try to use biphasic sleep. But if you suddenly experience a desire to take a nap that is stronger than usual and there is no specific reason that makes you tired too much, consult your condition to your doctor.