Need a Nap?

Some people feel refreshed and reinvigorated after catching a nap in the middle of the day. Others feel sluggish and downright grouchy.

The opinions on the benefits of napping vary. While some cultures indulge in seemingly healthy afternoon siestas every day of the week, there’s also research that indicates people who don’t take naps tend to live longer.
Most sleep experts do agree on these tips for catching a little daytime shut-eye:

• Limit your nap to 20 to 30 minutes. Longer naps can leave you groggy, a condition called sleep inertia. That grogginess sets you up for making mistakes and having accidents right after you wake up. 
• Don’t nap after 3 p.m. Naps later in the day can hinder your ability to fall asleep at night.
• Nap in a sleep-friendly environment. Choose a quiet, comfortable place. Remove any bright lights if possible. Just as at bedtime, limit distractions by turning off your cell phone, computer and TV.

If you’d like to learn more about sleeping better, please contact the Fort Sanders Sleep Disorders Center, please call (865) 331-1375 or visit fsregional. com/sleepdisorder.