Taking a good nap is actually harder than it first appears. Many of us have experienced the dreaded “nap hangover” – that groggy, disoriented feeling that comes after a nap that was too long or taken at the wrong time.
But with the right knowledge and preparation, you can take the perfect nap that leaves you feeling refreshed and energized. The key is understanding the 30-90 rule.
What is The 30-90 Rule?
The 30-90 rule is a guideline for taking a good nap without feeling groggy afterward. It states that naps should last 30 minutes or less — OR be at least 90 minutes long, in order to improve physical health and cognitive performance. Naps of these two lengths are considered “optimal” because they provide restorative sleep without excessive daytime sleepiness or interference with nighttime sleep patterns.
Why does the 30-90 rule work? The answer has to do with the science of sleep and the nature of our brains. For the first 30 minutes of your sleep, you are in light sleep. Awakening from this phase will leave you feeling refreshed and more alert. If you sleep for longer than 30 minutes but less than 90 minutes, you will likely wake up during a deep sleep phase. This causes grogginess. Naps of longer than 90 minutes often allow you to complete your sleep stages, resulting in the maximum amount of beneficial impact.
The Benefits of Healthy Napping
The benefits of taking a nap are numerous, including:
- Improved physical health
- Increased cognitive performance
- Better mood regulation
- Enhanced creativity
Studies have also shown that regular napping can reduce stress levels while improving memory recall and reaction times during tasks requiring quick decision-making skills, such as driving or playing sports. If you have been experiencing fatigue during your day and struggling through sleepiness, napping according to the 30-90 rule may be the best solution for your needs.
How To Take The Perfect Nap
In order to make sure your nap falls within the optimal range, it’s essential to plan ahead. Set an alarm clock (or use a smartphone app), so you don’t oversleep or wake up too late in the day. Additionally, caffeine before your nap as could interfere with your ability to fall asleep once you lie down. Instead, opt for beverages like chamomile tea, which has natural calming properties known to aid in relaxation.
Finally, create an environment that is comfortable and conducive to sleeping by dimming lights or potentially using earplugs and/or eye masks. This helps you get quality, restful sleep during your allotted time frame without distractions interrupting your slumber.
Overall following the 30-90 rule when taking naps will ensure maximum benefit from each session while minimizing any potential negative effects associated with oversleeping. By planning ahead, creating an ideal environment, avoiding caffeine prior, and setting an alarm clock accordingly, anyone can reap all the positive benefits associated with taking regular naps throughout their day!
How Much Napping Is Too Much?
Almost everyone feels fatigued from time to time during the day, and napping is perfect for these situations. If you’re napping frequently, you may have a sleep disorder. Excessive daytime sleepiness cannot be rectified with naps — real, quality, restorative sleep at night is critical to our health and quality of life.
If you suspect you may have a sleep disorder, reach out to us at Sleep Dynamics. We can schedule an appointment and begin to pinpoint the cause of your problems.
