The Health Benefits of Naps
I have written before about power naps before — short naps in the middle of the day that refresh and renew.
Now it seems that researchers have discovered that afternoon siestas have health benefits as well. A recent study (registration required) discovered that Greek men who took a regular afternoon naps were 37% less likely to die of heart disease than those who did not.
While the researchers admit that a single study does not make this conclusive, there are many physicians who see the benefit of a mid-day rest.
Specialists not involved with the study said there are sound biochemical reasons to believe that a nap may help protect against heart disease.
Essentially, they said, sleep at any time of day acts like a valve to release the stress of everyday life. Blood pressure is reduced and heart rates slow. At the same time, the immune system shores itself up. Increasingly, researchers are recognizing the role the immune system plays in heart disease.
As I’ve mentioned before, my dad takes an afternoon siesta every day right after lunch. He is the youngest 74-year-old I know. While I am sure this is only one part of his story of success, I can see how some rest during the day can be beneficial.
In my own experience, a 20 minute power nap has greatly benefited me on days I’m feeling drowsy. If I had the ability to integrate this into a regular daily pattern I would, but most client sites won’t put in a nap room just for my benefit.