How many times have you woken up from a nap feeling like you accidentally travelled through a wormhole and landed in a parallel universe where everything feels slightly off? Yeah, naps can be a gamble.
You close your eyes for a quick recharge, only to wake up feeling more confused than a toddler trying to fit a square block in a round hole.
But science is finally catching up to what many of us have known all along – napping is GOOD for you! Not just good for feeling a little less like a zombie, but good for your brain in some seriously powerful ways.
Think of your brain as a high-performance computer. Just like our computers need a restart every now and then, our brains also benefit from a power down (without the full shutdown of a night’s sleep).
A study published by University College London (UCL) found a surprising link between napping and brain health. Their research suggests that people who nap regularly tend to have larger total brain volume.
This is significant because a larger brain volume is often associated with better cognitive function and a lower risk of dementia later in life. The study suggests that napping may act as a safeguard, compensating for inadequate sleep or boosting overall brain health.
And research in Behavioural and Brain Sciences suggests that napping allows your brain to process information subconsciously. This subconscious processing can lead to unexpected connections and creative problem-solving skills.
Sold on the brain benefits? Here are some expert-recommended tips:
- The sweet spot: Aim for 20-30 minutes. Any longer and you might slip into deep sleep, leading to that groggy “sleep inertia” feeling.
- Time it right: Avoid napping too close to bedtime (ideally no later than 3pm) so you don’t mess with your nighttime sleep cycle.
- Create a nap routine: If you find napping works for you, try napping at the same time each day. This helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle and maximises the benefits.
Of course, napping shouldn’t be a replacement for quality sleep. If you find yourself needing naps constantly to function, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Talk to a doctor about your sleep habits and make sure you’re getting enough shut-eye at night.
But for those times when the afternoon slump hits, don’t be afraid to embrace the power nap! Science (and your brain) will thank you for it.
Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional.
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