What good could a nap do to you?

In a world that is filled with demanding schedules and constant stimuli of our senses, naps are a godsend. But, these small pockets of rest have undeservedly earned a reputation for being a gateway to laziness. In truth, naps are the missing ingredient for efficiency. 

A quick siesta offers an array of benefits that boost how you feel and function:

• Enhanced Cognitive Performance: Research has shown that naps can significantly elevate cognitive performance. When naps last between 10-30 minutes, they provide a burst of alertness, enhancing memory consolidation and information retention. These benefits are unlocked because, during a nap, your brain goes through a REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage, transferring its storage of short-term memory to long-term memory. The REM stage grants us improved concentration and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, napping helps the brain process new information effectively, improving learning outcomes.

• Improved Mood and Emotional Well-Being: Naps provide us with a break from the demands and stress of the modern lifestyle, helping us feel much more relaxed to deal with the ongoing hustle. A well-rested mind is better equipped at regulating emotions and maintaining a positive outlook. Since sleep deprivation negatively impacts our emotional state, making us more susceptible to stress, the opposite makes us a lot more emotionally resilient. Napping has also been shown to alleviate symptoms of irritability. 

• Increased Productivity and Alertness: Even though napping is infamously perceived as sluggish use of time, it can actually enhance productivity. When we feel tired or overworked, our efficiency and focus begin to dip. Taking a nap acts as a reset for your mind and counteracts these effects. Resting recharges our energy levels and boosts alertness. A well-timed nap can also lead to improved job performance, increased productivity and a reduction in making errors. Incorporating a nap into your daily routine can help you get over the midday slump. 

So the next time you feel like having a nice little nap after lunch or when you are having quick shut eye during a long meeting, share this blog with your boss and let him know that you are doing your best to stay productive and deliver better results.