Power Napping For Your Health
Many of us experience a plummet in energy around the mid-afternoon shortly after lunch time. It is common to feel lethargic and tired after digesting a meal, or spending hours in front of a computer screen. The question that comes to mind is will a power nap recharge you?
Research shows that your brain is very much like a machine in the sense that when it functions to the fullest of its capability, your body will not require sleep. For the most part it will tell you when it is tired and when it needs a break and in these cases taking a power nap during the day may be the answer to rejuvenation. Power napping is usually considered to be 20-30 minutes of rest. Here are some other benefits associated with regular napping.
Napping for as little as 20 minutes can increase your energy naturally and eliminate the constant reliance of caffeine and harsh stimulants.
Most people would agree that taking an afternoon nap can refresh the mind and increase alertness at work. If you break for lunch, this may be a wise way to spend it. Studies show that it can enhance learning, memory, creativity, and productivity.
The demands of each day can be overwhelming and leave you feeling exhausted and stressed out. When the body gets adequate rest it inhibits the release of the stress hormone called cortisol. Cortisol is produced during times of fight or flight responses. An overproduction of this hormone can lead to exhaustion and weight problems. Making time for a nap during the day can reduce stress and help with weight management as well.
Recharging your battery by napping can also help with motivation for exercise. One of the biggest reasons people omit this from their day is that they are simply too tired to. Napping can increase both motivation and the duration of a workout.
Sleep deprivation can be a problem for many people. If lack of sleep persists it can accumulate and increase unwanted stress and health risks. One of the best ways to combat this issue is to make up for it in increments such as power napping. Over time it will help the body catch up on lost hours of sleep.
There are countless reasons why you should make sleep a priority in your life. If you suffer from a sleep disorder you are especially at higher risk for health issues. In any case taking a nap each day can do the body good both mentally and physically.
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