NATIONAL NAPPING DAY
Each year, National Napping Day recognizes our need the day following the return of daylight saving time. Not only does the observance encourage a nap, it reminds us that there’s no shame in taking one either. While preparing for the time change can offset the shock to our internal clock, many other things in our life may not handle the change so well causing us to still lose sleep. Young children and pets do not adjust as easily and certain work schedules do not permit early adjustment, either.
#NationalNappingDay
Mid-afternoon naps are an integral part of most cultures, and scientifically proven to be good for you.
A needed rest can make you feel better and also improve your mood. After having the extra amount of sleep, a person will notice that they will be more productive and energetic. Numerous studies have shown that short 10-20 minute naps are the most effective when midday fatigue hits. Improvements in alertness, productivity, and mood have all been shown to improve with this type of snooze.
Though there are some of us who are just not the napping kind, if you can reap those benefits, find a cozy spot for 10 minutes or so on National Napping Day.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL NAPPING DAY
- Catch some zees!
- Be sure to nap early enough in the day so as to not interrupt your regular sleep cycle.
- Create a perfect napping environment.
- Share your favorite type of nap or why you enjoy a good snooze.
- Take a relaxing nap and use #NationalNappingDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL NAPPING DAY HISTORY
William Anthony, Ph.D., a Boston University Professor, and his wife, Camille Anthony, created National Napping Day in 1999 as an effort to spotlight the health benefits to catching up on quality sleep. “We chose this particular Monday because Americans are more ‘nap-ready’ than usual after losing an hour of sleep to daylight saving time,” Anthony said in B.U.’s press release.
Napping FAQ
Q. Are there any benefits to taking a nap?
A. Yes. Several studies point to the benefits of short naps. Some of those benefits include:
- Improved alertness
- Decrease stress
- Improve mood
Q. Does everyone nap?
A. No. Some people are not nappers.
Q. Can a nap be too long?
A. Yes. Long naps and naps taken late in the day can negatively impact our nighttime sleep habits. According to the Mayo Clinic, an optimal nap time is between 10 and 20 minutes.
