Feeling tired in the afternoons? Don't fight it. Nap. Here's why:
1. Six minutes to better memory. It's remarkable, but it works. Six minutes of shut eye is enough to improve long-term memory, says Gizmodo. So next time you're studying for a test, break up your studying with six-minute naps. You just might be surprised by how much you remember.
2. Twenty minutes to better reactions. The National Sleep Foundation says 20 minutes is the ideal napping time for boosting alertness and improving motor function.
Advertisement
3. Thirty minutes to reverse a night of poor sleep. CBS News reports a study that found "a 30-minute nap can reverse the hormonal impact of a night of poor sleep." While this may sound monumental, CBS News warns it is dangerous to make it into a habit. Lack of sleep is related to a range of health problems, including obesity, high blood pressure, and depression.
4. Forty-five minutes to lower blood pressure. Gizmodo reports a 45-minute nap has the powerful effect of lowering blood pressure and boosting the cardiovascular system during times of stress.
5. Sixty minutes to problem solve. If you just can't figure out the answer, close your eyes and set your alarm for 60- 90 minutes. According to The National Sleep Foundation, this is the optimal time to make new connections and solve creative problems.
Advertisement
6. Ninety minutes to creativity. A complete sleep cycle is 90 minutes. If you can squeeze in time for an "epic nap," Gizmodo says you may experience a creativity boost. You will also strengthen your emotional health and procedural memory.
Spread the word, change a life, SHARE this article on social media.