New findings on the best time to take a nap

The study, conducted by Talker Research, a US research agency, surveyed 2,000 participants from January 23 to 27 to examine how people nap and find out what makes some people nap better than others.

Researchers examined napping habits and preferences, and the impact of napping on various aspects of life.

Phát hiện mới về thời điểm tốt nhất để ngủ trưa - Ảnh 1. — The study found that the perfect time for a nap is 1:42 PM.

Dr. Nick Bach, a psychologist at Grace Psychological Services (USA), says that sleep—especially naps—affects mood, concentration, and overall health. Many people nap incorrectly and then wonder why they feel sluggish instead of refreshed.

The best time to take a nap.

Notably, the study found that the perfect nap time is 1:42 PM. Dr. Bach explains: "One of the biggest mistakes people make is napping too late. If you nap in the late afternoon or at dusk, it can affect your nighttime sleep. Ideally, nap before 3 PM to maintain your sleep schedule," according to the research site Study Finds.

Why is this the best time for a nap?

The benefits are clear: Results show that those who took their nap at 1:42 PM felt more productive immediately after waking up.

Phát hiện mới về thời điểm tốt nhất để ngủ trưa - Ảnh 2. — Those who took their nap at 1:42 PM felt more productive immediately after waking up.

The interesting benefits of napping.

The study also yielded some interesting findings: People who regularly take naps may have better social lives. The research found that "nappers" have more active social lives, which may improve their mental, physical, and cognitive health as they age, compared to non-nappers. In particular, nappers have more satisfying emotional lives than non-nappers.

How long should a nap be?

The results revealed that most people typically nap for 51 minutes and wake up at 2:33 PM.

However, it's worth noting that napping for too long can actually make you feel worse than not napping at all.

Research has found that napping longer than 1 hour and 26 minutes is considered "dangerous territory." At this point, you may feel sluggish and disoriented instead of refreshed.

But a 51-minute nap, as many people prefer, can also be too long. Dr. Bach warns: If you nap for too long, you risk falling into a deep sleep, making it harder to wake up. A quick 20-minute nap is perfect for recharging without the dreaded sleep-deprived syndrome, according to Study Finds.