We’ve all been there – feeling exhausted in the middle of the day, trying to fight off sleepiness and get through the rest of our work day. We’re told time and time again that we need to get a good night’s sleep, but sometimes that just isn’t possible. So what can we do to recharge our batteries and get through the day? The answer is a power nap! Power naps are short, 20-minute bursts of sleep that can help improve your alertness and cognitive function. And the best part is, they’re easy to do! In this blog post, we’ll show you how to power nap like a pro.
The benefits of power napping
Napping has been shown to provide a plethora of benefits, including improved alertness, mood, and cognitive function. Napping can also help reduce stress and improve heart health.
Power naps, or naps that are taken for a specific duration with the intention of providing a quick burst of energy, can be especially beneficial. A power nap of just 15-20 minutes can help improve alertness and cognitive function without the grogginess often associated with longer naps.
Don’t drink caffeine before napping: Caffeine takes about 30 minutes to take effect, so if you drink coffee or another caffeinated beverage right before napping, you may not be able to fall asleep.
Power napping pro tips
How long should my power nap be?
The ideal length for a power nap is 15-20 minutes. Any longer and you might enter into a deeper stage of sleep from which it can be difficult to wake up, leaving you feeling groggy and disoriented.
What is the best time of day to take a power nap?
The best time for a power nap is generally mid-afternoon, when your energy levels start to dip. But listen to your body – if you’re feeling tired earlier or later in the day, adjust your schedule accordingly.
Where should I take my power nap?
You can power nap just about anywhere – at your desk, in your car, on the couch, or even lying down in bed. If possible, find a quiet place where you can relax and won’t be disturbed. And make sure the temperature is comfortable – not too hot or too cold.
Should I set an alarm?
Yes! It’s important to set an alarm so you don’t sleep for too long and end up feeling worse than before you napped. A good rule of thumb is to set your alarm for 20 minutes minus however long you want to sleep. So if you want to sleep for 10 minutes, set your alarm for 10 minutes.
Don’t drink caffeine before napping: Caffeine takes about 30 minutes to take effect, so if you drink coffee or another caffeinated beverage right before napping, you may not be able to fall asleep.