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We’ve all been there: that mid-afternoon slump where your eyes start to droop, your energy levels plummet, and it feels like you’re going through the motions. But what if we tell you there’s a simple solution to this common problem? Enter nap time. A well-timed nap works wonders for your productivity, energy levels, and overall well-being. However, no matter how well-intentioned it may be, some naps just make us feel worse as we wake up groggy and unfocused.
That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to napping to help you optimise your snoozes for maximum benefits and minimal disruption. We’ll provide tips to implement immediately and discover tools such as sleep aid apps that may support your rest. So, grab a cosy blanket and get ready to discover the secrets to making the most of your mid-day siesta.
Timing is everything
As we know, that afternoon slump can be a productivity killer. But is it the best time to have a nap? Some would say yes! It’s a good idea to avoid napping close to bedtime as it may disrupt your natural body clock. Consequently, early afternoon is a great time to rest your mind and body. Instead of grabbing an afternoon coffee, try napping before you hit that energy slump. This might be between 1 pm and 3 pm but aim not to sleep any later than this.
Don’t overdo it
Waking up is something many people struggle with, and that may be because you’re overdoing it. This begs the question, is there a perfect nap time?
Everyone’s body responds differently, but experts generally recommend keeping daytime naps between 10 and 20 minutes. Aiming for a shorter nap allows you to relax the mind and body without entering a deep sleep. It’s worth noting for people who struggle to sleep in the evening, you might benefit from a longer nap of up to 60 minutes. That said, try not to do this too late in the day, as it may further disturb your rest. If timing is something you find challenging, you can use a sleep app iPhone to help track your session and find your perfect duration.
Consider your environment
g, Where you nap is an essential component to achieving good rest. You don’t want to lose way overtime trying to get to sleep and be worse off. Therefore, creating a restful environment is a great way to maximise napping benefits. The alternative is being unable to drift off, being disturbed every minute by external noises, and ultimately waking up more frustrated. If you struggle to stay asleep due to various disruptions, using white noise apps might help you enjoy a more restorative rest. You should choose an app that allows you to customise the audio and set a timer so you don’t sleep too long.
Closing thoughts
There you have it, three quick tips to make napping work for you. Remember to keep them short and sweet, try out white noise apps, and schedule your nap earlier in the day. These suggestions are an excellent place to start if you feel fatigued in the afternoon and need an energy boost. Happy napping!