As I have said – okay, typed – before, drinking water = power (or energy) but who would have thunk it, apparently, naps too = power.
Before you get the idea that I’m trying to propagate my ‘Sloths Rule!’ philosophy, let me assure you, this power nap deal is not only true, but also a fact!
From the blogista’s friend Wiki:
A power nap is a short sleep that terminates before the occurrence of deep sleep or slow-wave sleep (SWS), intended to revitalise the subject. The expression was coined by Cornell University social psychologist James Maas.
Characteristics
The power nap is thought to maximise the benefits of sleep versus time. It is used to supplement normal sleep, especially when a sleeper has accumulated a sleep deficit.
Various durations are recommended for power naps, which are very short, compared to regular sleep. The short duration of a power nap is designed to prevent nappers from sleeping so long that they enter a normal sleep cycle without being able to complete it. Going beyond sleep stages I and II but failing to complete a full sleep cycle, can result in a phenomenon known as sleep inertia, where one feels groggy, disoriented, and even sleepier than before beginning the nap. Brief naps can improve alertness directly after awakening without the detrimental effects of sleep inertia associated with longer naps.
Scientific experiments and anecdotal evidence suggest an average power nap of around 30 minutes is most effective. Any more time, and the body enters into its usual sleep cycle. People who regularly take power naps may develop a good idea of what duration works best for them, as well as what tools, environment, position, and associated factors help induce the best results.
To this, I can certainly attest.
I’ll come clean though, I have never actually had a power nap at work – what I have had though, is a power nap when I’ve been running on empty between Job A and Job B in one day. I leave Job A, zoom home and have a gap of an hour or so before needing to leave for Job B.
Perhaps I’ve been remiss about my water intake for the day (yes, it does happen) and my battery is blinking red. It has happened where I’ve sat down, leant back and closed my eyes on the (most comfortable) sofa. When I magically wake up, 20 to 45 minutes later, without any type of alarm, I definitely feel better, not groggy or tired at all.
I can’t say that it will work for everyone, as I believe everyone’s make-up is different, but I can say that it most definitely does work. So, more power to you, fellow nappers, as you embark on the Journey of the Power Nap.
Oh, whether you have or don’t have power nap opportunities, might I suggest that you, at least, aim towards drinking a good few bottles or glasses of water every day.
