In the busy world we live in, it can be hard to find time for a few minutes of rest. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 85% of mammals practice short naps throughout the day. However, humans are among the minority who divide their day into wakefulness and rest. 
With the US leading the way in sleep deprivation, perhaps our napping strategy is a bit off. While it may be tempting to grab a cup of coffee to boost your energy, it may be time to give your body the rest it craves. Let’s take a look at the many benefits of a 30-minute nap. 
1. Protects the immune system
Have you ever noticed that being sick and tired seems to go hand and hand? That’s not just a coincidence. According to an article from Medical Daily, a nap can help protect your immune system. When you are tired, your immune system isn’t as strong as it could be. With a vulnerable immune system, your body is not as capable of warding off common colds and flu. When you sleep, your immune system recovers and restores itself to its proper levels. 
2. Improves decision-making skills
When you are tired, your ability to make decisions or remember information can be very difficult. Web MD indicates that napping for 30-60 minutes, referred to as slow-wave sleep, can help improve your ability to study, recall information, and make good choices. 
3. Helps you avoid overeating
Lack of sleep can lead to eating too much. An article from Men’s Health says that when you don’t get enough rest, your body triggers the production of gherkin, a hormone that makes you feel hungry. Likewise, your body decreases the production of a hormone called leptin which makes you feel full. If you are looking to achieve a good body weight and fit lifestyle, you should start with making sure you are getting plenty of rest. 
4. Easy stress management
Are you looking for a simple solution for your stress? Try taking a quick nap. An article from Medical Daily indicates that a few moments of rest can help you feel mentally and emotionally rejuvenated. Lack of sleep can also make your blood pressure skyrocket, so giving yourself just a few minutes to relax can help you manage your stress and live a balanced life. 
5. Good for your heart
According to Men’s Health, lack of sleep can mean bad news for your heart. When you don’t rest properly, your blood vessels become restricted which can have severe impacts on your heart. In fact, it can even lead to a heart attack. However, getting adequate sleep can repair the blood vessels and help protect your heart from harm. 
6. Enhances memory
When you don’t sleep, your brain is overworked and has difficulty recalling even the simplest information. To get your memory back on track, curl up for a quick snooze. According to Medical Daily, companies such as Google have discovered the positive impacts of allowing their employees to sleep on the job. A few minutes of rest and their employees are more engaged and can remember information more clearly. 
7. Makes you happier
Most people are aware that if you don’t sleep you get a little cranky. According to Men’s Health, lack of sleep reduces your self-control. You have less ability to hold back on your irritability and are more likely to lose your cool when handling difficult people or situations. 
The National Sleep Foundation recommends finding a relatively quiet place to lay down undisturbed for a short nap, ideally, midday is best so as not to disrupt nighttime sleep. If you are trying to squeeze in a nap but can't get to sleep, don't worry. Just resting for a few minutes can also provide some benefits.
Finally, the proof we need to nap guilt-free! Share with your friends to encourage them to get a little more shuteye too!