Unsure whether napping is good for you? Understand the pros and cons and the best way to take a nap.
If you’re sleep deprived or just looking for a way to relax, you might be thinking about taking a nap. Napping at the wrong time of day or for too long can backfire, though. Understand how to get the most out of a nap.
Table of Contents
What are the benefits of napping?
Napping offers various benefits for healthy adults, including:
What are the drawbacks to napping?
Napping isn’t for everyone. Some people simply can’t sleep during the day or have trouble sleeping in places other than their own beds, which napping sometimes requires.
Napping can also have negative effects, such as:
When should I consider a nap?
You might consider making time for a nap if you:
Could a sudden increased need for naps indicate a health problem?
If you’re experiencing an increased need for naps and there’s no obvious cause of new fatigue in your life, talk to your doctor. You could be taking a medication or have a sleep disorder or other medical condition that’s disrupting your nighttime sleep.
What’s the best way to take a nap?
To get the most out of a nap, follow these tips:
After napping, give yourself time to wake up before resuming activities — particularly those that require a quick or sharp response.
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