Know the pros and cons of taking an afternoon nap

In today’s hectic world, a daytime nap can make the difference between a productive day and an unproductive one. It is not only normal, but a necessary part of daily life in many societies. According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 33 percent of adults in the United States consistently take an afternoon nap. Assuming you’re healthy, an afternoon nap can make you feel less irritable and ensure you’re well rested if you’re working or studying outside of normal daytime hours.

A nap can often leave you feeling as rejuvenated as eight hours of sleep. Naps can provide several health benefits, including improved alertness, improved memory, and good mood. However, in addition to the many benefits of an afternoon nap, there may also be some drawbacks to your sleep patterns and cause you to feel sleepy during the day. So if you’re thinking about incorporating afternoon naps into your daily routine, there are a few pros and cons to be aware of.

Benefits of an afternoon nap

1. Increases memory
   Taking an afternoon nap can help improve memory. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, an afternoon nap of about 30 to 90 minutes showed an improvement in memory ability in the elderly.
2. Reduces stress
   Midday sleep can also provide smoothness to the sensory system, helping you relax and resist any panic response. Previous studies have also shown that a short nighttime nap can help with anger management.
3. Reduces fatigue
   During the day, especially when you are doing mental or physical work, your body craves a short break. However, some people have a habit of going without, which is completely normal. But taking an afternoon nap will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for the day.
4. Improves performance
   Your brain restarts after some rest and you continue to concentrate more. When you take an afternoon nap, your body recharges and you can continue working with more energy.

Risks of taking an afternoon nap

1. Interferes with your good night’s sleep
   If you have a disrupted sleep schedule, don’t sleep in the afternoon. This interferes with your ability to sleep at night. Doctors do not recommend taking a nap in the afternoon, as it can disrupt your night’s sleep.
2. Promotes hypertension
   According to the United States National Library of Medicine, middle-aged and older women who slept more than 90 minutes were 39 percent and 54 percent more likely to have hypertension, respectively. However, the associations are not significant in middle-aged and older men.
3. Your body may not need it
   It should be noted that midday sleep is not for everyone, especially if you suffer from insomnia – a sleep disorder that can interfere with one’s daily activities.

Read all the Latest Lifestyle News here