You stayed up late scrolling through social media or binge-watched your new Netflix series, now you’re drained and dragging yourself around all day. Rather than sipping coffee, you may do better taking a quick nap. Compared to caffeine, napping can lower stress levels, improve memory and boost immunity.
Studies show that afternoon naps are food for the brain. A nap in the mid-afternoon can improve memory, helps you focus, relieves stress, and makes you more alert. Here’s what a quick nap can do for you.
Improved memory
After you learn a new skill, take a nap while you’re on break. Research has shown that sleep plays a key role in storing memories.
A study found that people who nap before the test were better at remembering new information up to a week later than those who crammed for the test.
Taking a nap not only helps you remember what you learn but it could also help your brain draw connections between things that you learn. In one study, nappers performed better on a test that assessed what they learned earlier in the day.
Helps relieve stress
If you’re under a lot of pressure, taking a midday nap can reduce your stress, help you cope better with frustration, and can even turn a sour mood around.
In a study, people who napped for 45 to 60 minutes had lower blood pressure after experiencing mental stress. So your body recovers from stress-filled situations when you take a nap.
Boosts your defense system
While you should always keep a healthy diet, wash your hands and practice physical distancing, sleep and immunity are closely linked, so taking naps helps boost your immunity.
Based on a small study in 2015, researchers say that a 30-minute nap will do the trick.
As a result, it lowered the levels of inflammatory cytokines and norepinephrine, a chemical that controls immunity.
The right kind of catnap can help with our mental health, make us more creative, and may make us more productive. You’ll need to make sure to time it correctly if you want to get the most out of them.
Most people take a nap in the afternoon if they are feeling tired and stressed as it is most natural and helpful for people. Some experts suggest sleep is best between 2 and 3 p.m. when humans have a natural decline in alertness. The best time for you will depend on your level of sleep. If you’re well-rested, It’s okay to take a nap later. If you’re sleep-deprived, you might want to take a nap earlier.
