Can Regular Naps Improve Your Health?
By Genevieve Cunningham
As children, we fight naps like mad. Even though we're exhausted and in desperate need of some sleep, it's the absolute last thing that we want. As adults, it's the exact opposite. We want a nap so bad, but there's no time to make it happen. Or if there is time, we feel like we should be doing something else with our time. But what if taking a nap was actually good for you? What if it was one of the best and most productive ways to spend your time? If you find that you're exhausted and generally yearning for a nap, take a look at how adding it into your regular life may actually be beneficial to your health and well-being.
A Small Nap Boosts Energy
You may envision a nap as something long and deep and relaxing. A good nap is at least an hour, right? And who has that kind of time? But a good nap doesn't have to be long at all! A simple 15 minutes of sleep can help boost your energy for the rest of the day. And most people can schedule an extra 15 minutes into their day. If you generally experience more fatigue at the day's end, consider a quick nap to boost your energy and recharge your batteries for the remainder of the day.
It Can Improve Productivity and Focus
When we're tired, it's hard to focus. It's hard to think straight. It's hard to be productive. But if we plan on a nap during the day, it can actually improve our focus and productivity. If we're not fighting off heavy eyes or stifling yawns, we can give our full attention to the task at hand. And since this improves our quality of work, it can also improve self-satisfaction and quality of life. If you like the thought of being more productive and potentially more successful, a nap may be just what you need to get moving in the right direction.
Sleep Improves All Areas of Health
We can't live without sleep. What's more, we can't even have good health without sleep. And since most of us don't get nearly enough, we're all walking around with health that is suffering more than necessary. A quick nap can help you catch up on your daily need for sleep. And as we catch up, we may see a boost in every area of our health. If a tiny bit of extra sleep can make you feel better and boost your health at the same time, why not give it a try right away?
While you may not think of a nap as a way to enhance and improve your life, it can truly make a difference. You don't have to be tired and rundown. You can be full of energy and focus, and you can feel better in your daily life. Consider adding a short nap to your regular day to experience these benefits and lots more starting as soon as today.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Aliso Viejo, Calif.