The Power of Napping: Unlocking Better Health and Performance March 20, 2025 As adults, we often overlook the simple yet powerful benefits of napping. Napping isn't just a way to recharge; it can be a strategic tool to enhance our health, cognitive function, and overall well-being. Let's explore why incorporating a short nap into your day could be one of the best decisions you make. Health Benefits of Napping Brain Health: Regular napping has been linked to maintaining larger brain volume, which can delay brain aging by 3 to 6 years.1 Cognitive Boost: Short naps of just 5 to 15 minutes can significantly improve mental performance, enhancing memory consolidation and reaction times.2,3 Physical Performance: In sports science, napping is recognised for its ability to improve athletic performance by enhancing coordinated movements and mood.4 When and How to Nap Timing: The best time for a nap is between 1 pm and 4 pm when your body naturally experiences a dip in alertness.4,5 Duration: Keep naps short, ideally between 15 to 20 minutes. Longer naps can leave you feeling groggy.4 Environment: Create a restful space that is quiet, dark, and at a comfortable temperature. Avoid distractions like phones and TVs. Should Napping Be Part of Your Routine? While napping offers numerous mental and physical benefits, it's essential to ensure it doesn't replace good night’s sleep. If you frequently need naps, consider whether you're compensating for inadequate sleep at night. Conclusion Incorporating naps into your daily routine can be a simple yet powerful way to enhance your health and performance. However, maintaining good sleep hygiene is still important. If you find yourself relying heavily on naps due to constant tiredness or poor quality sleep, it might be time to seek professional advice. How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help We are a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team consists of Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants. Committed to universal healthcare and gold standard patient care, we bulk bill sleep studies and lung function testing, ensuring quick medical procedures with minimal wait times. If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek treatment advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&C’s apply. Citations 1. Paz, Valentina, et al. “Is There an Association between Daytime Napping, Cognitive Function, and Brain Volume?” Sleep Health, vol. 9, no. 5, 2023, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleh.2023.05.002. 2. Dutheil, Frédéric, et al. “Effects of a Short Daytime Nap on the Cognitive Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, vol. 18, no. 19, 2021, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910212. 3. Lovato, Nicole, and Leon Lack. “The Effects of Napping on Cognitive Functioning.” Progress in Brain Research, vol. 185, 2010, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-444-53702-7.00009-9. 4. Gerretsen, Isabelle. “Why Power Naps Might Be Good for Our Health.” BBC, 2024, www.bbc.com/future/article/20240126-why-power-naps-might-be-good-for-our-health. 5. Mayo Clinic Staff. “How to Get a Great Nap.” Mayo Clinic, 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/napping/art-20048319.
