How to Nap — There’s a Science to it

Let's face it, there are days when we just can't hold our eyes open for another minute. Now, I don't know about you, but if I take a nap during the day, when it's time to turn in for the day, my brain says, 'You've slept already.'

Seems a lot of research has been done about napping and here are a few tips on the subject.

Even though it’s an activity often associated with laziness, experts claim there’s both an art and a science to napping.  The perfect nap varies from person to person; the timing and duration of your nap depends on factors like age, genetics and individual sleep cycle.  Americans certainly enjoy a mid-day snooze: more than 30% of adults say they nap on a typical day.  Check out these quick nap facts:

*If you’re dragging your feet and need a quick energy jolt, take a 10-to-20-minute power nap.

*To boost your memory, nap for about an hour.  You’ll probably feel a little groggy when you wake up, but your ability to recall facts, faces and other info will be refreshed.

*To really recharge, take a 90-minute nap.  It’ll give you a full cycle of sleep, meaning you’ll pass through the REM or dreaming stage, and will find it easier to wake up.

*Don’t nap too late in the day or you may find it difficult to fall asleep at bedtime.  Between 1 and 4 pm is ideal, though it depends on when your alarm goes off in the morning and when you turn in at night.

*To avoid falling into too deep a sleep (which can make rousing yourself even harder), nap sitting slightly upright.

*If you’re sleep-deprived- and you likely are- napping is a great idea.  But napping isn’t a recommended treatment for those suffering from insomnia.