Article content
Many people are reluctant to take a short afternoon nap after lunch. They often worry that it will interrupt their day, disrupt their work routine or make falling asleep in the evening more difficult. The truth, however, is that a short rest has many health benefits that can positively affect both body and mind.
Although we’ve come to regard a midday siesta as a habit of babies or pets, adults should also include this great form of relaxation in their day. Let’s take a look at how an afternoon nap benefits our health and why you should include it in your daily routine.
Supports cognitive function and concentration
During sleep, information in the brain is reorganized, which helps improve memory, concentration and creativity. If you feel that your brain is overloaded and you can’t concentrate, just 20 to 30 minutes of sleep is enough for your mental performance to improve significantly.
A short rest helps restore brain capacity, so you’ll be able to better handle tasks and react more quickly to stimuli. For example, students or people working in demanding professions may notice a significant improvement in productivity.
Strengthens heart health
Studies have shown that people who regularly take a short afternoon nap have lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of developing heart disease.
If you feel stressed during the day, your heart works under greater strain. A short nap helps release tension, stabilize heart rhythm, and support the overall health of the cardiovascular system.
It has even been found that regular afternoon napping can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by up to 37%.
Reduces stress and anxiety
Long-term lack of sleep increases levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which leads to worsened mood, irritability and greater fatigue.
An afternoon siesta helps regulate stress levels and contributes to mental well-being. Even a short rest can calm the nervous system and help you cope with the daily rush.
If you feel exhausted or stressed, try lying down for 20 minutes in a quiet environment, closing your eyes and resting – you’ll see that you’ll feel much better!
Helps regulate hunger
You may have noticed that even after lunch you have a constant craving for sweets or more food. The reason is that your body hasn’t yet processed the nutrients taken in and the brain mistakenly thinks you need more energy.
If you give yourself a short rest after eating, you give your body time for proper digestion. The body calms down, the need to overeat decreases and you will therefore not reach for unhealthy snacks.
How long to sleep for maximum effects?
The length of an afternoon nap plays a key role. If you sleep too long, you may wake up tired and disoriented. The ideal time for a short nap is 20–30 minutes, which is sufficient to refresh the brain and body.
If you want to allow yourself a longer sleep, try not to exceed 90 minutes, because during that time you complete a full sleep cycle and avoid feeling drowsy upon waking.
Conclusion: Why allow yourself an afternoon nap?
- Improves concentration and memory
- Supports heart health
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Helps regulate hunger and digestion
If you’ve so far thought that an afternoon nap is unnecessary, try including it in your routine and watch how your energy, mood and overall health improve. Just 20 minutes a day and your body will thank you!
