Benefits of Napping and How to Do It Correctly

A short nap during the day can help the body feel more energetic, mentally alert and in a relaxed mood.

According to Michelle Drerup, a psychologist and behavioral sleep disorder expert in the US, taking a proper nap will help people take advantage of many benefits for both mind and body.

However, you should sleep just enough to feel comfortable but not so long that your body falls into a deep sleep, losing the natural feeling of sleepiness in the evening, according to Cleveland Clinic.

Taking a proper nap will help people take advantage of many benefits for both mind and body.

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Benefits of a nap

A short nap increases concentration, shortens reaction time and improves logical reasoning.

People who have a habit of napping often remember new information better. In addition, napping also helps reduce irritability, reduce impulsiveness and help people be calmer when facing difficult tasks during the day.

For older adults, the benefits of napping become even more important. As we age, nighttime sleep often becomes lighter and more easily interrupted. Many older adults wake up multiple times during the night and no longer sleep as deeply as before. Therefore, napping is a solution to help them maintain activity and alertness during the day.

Tips for a quality nap

To get an effective nap, the nap should be short, from 15 to 30 minutes is ideal. This is enough time for the body to feel refreshed without falling into the deep sleep stage that makes the mind sluggish when waking up.

Napping too long often makes it difficult for the body to regain its working rhythm and can affect nighttime sleep.

Napping too late in the day can make it harder to fall asleep at night. People with a regular sleep schedule should avoid sleeping after 2 or 3 p.m.

For night shift workers, a short nap before starting their shift can help the body stay alert and maintain focus.

For those preparing to drive long distances, a short nap before departure is a reasonable choice to ensure safety.

Can a nap replace nighttime sleep?

Napping is not a substitute for nighttime sleep. Adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to ensure overall health.

A good night's sleep helps the body maintain energy, strengthen the immune system, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity and many other diseases.

Getting enough sleep also helps stabilize the mind and maintain the ability to work continuously during the day. If you only rely on naps to compensate for lack of sleep at night, the body will not enjoy all the benefits that sleep brings.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/loi-ich-cua-giac-ngu-trua-va-cach-thuc-hien-dung-18525092317501726.htm