“The Hidden Advantages of Taking Naps at Work”
In the bustling city of New York, workers are finding unique spots to catch some shut-eye during the day. From parking garages to nap pods rented by the hour, people are embracing the idea of sneaking in a quick nap to boost their productivity. Inspired by famous figures like Winston Churchill and Albert Einstein, these dedicated nap-takers believe that a short snooze can enhance their cognitive abilities, despite the lingering stigma attached to the practice.
Numerous studies have highlighted the positive effects of napping, such as improved memory and focus. In some cultures like Spain and Italy, a mid-afternoon siesta is a common practice. In countries like China and Japan, taking a nap is encouraged as a sign of commitment, as working to the point of exhaustion is seen as a virtue.
However, in the United States, napping during work hours is often frowned upon, with some viewing it as laziness. Even the federal government prohibits sleeping in its buildings during work hours, except in rare cases. Nevertheless, a growing number of individuals are starting to speak out about the benefits of incorporating short naps into their routine. For instance, Marvin Stockwell, the founder of a PR firm, credits his productivity and creativity to the rejuvenating power of naps.
According to experts like James Rowley from Rush University Medical Center, sleep is just as crucial for overall health as diet and exercise. Yet, many people struggle to get an adequate amount of rest, often due to the distractions of modern technology. To combat this, some professionals, like social media expert Julianna Kirschner, have embraced daytime naps to recharge their minds.
The key to a successful nap, as emphasized by Rowley, is to keep it short. Naps lasting between 15 to 20 minutes are more likely to leave individuals feeling refreshed and alert, while longer naps can lead to grogginess and difficulty waking up. For those who consistently rely on naps to compensate for lack of sleep, it may be worth reassessing their bedtime routines.
Timing also plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of a nap. Experts like Michael Chee recommend napping in the mid-afternoon when the body naturally experiences a dip in energy levels. Napping later in the day could disrupt nighttime sleep patterns for those who work during the day.
In conclusion, the practice of taking short naps at work may hold valuable benefits for cognitive performance and overall well-being. By incorporating strategic napping into their routine, individuals can potentially enhance their productivity and mental clarity throughout the day.
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According to Leong at the Singapore center, taking excessively long naps may not be a sustainable practice, and naps lasting longer than two hours can disrupt nighttime sleep. To combat this, experts suggest setting an alarm for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing for a quick transition into sleep. Even a brief six-minute nap can have restorative effects and enhance learning, as stated by Valentin Dragoi, the scientific director of the Center for Neural Systems Restoration, a joint facility of Houston Methodist hospital and Rice University.
While napping in the workplace is uncommon in the U.S., some companies and managers support the practice. For instance, Will Bryk, the founder of AI search startup Exa, advocates for 20-minute power naps and has provided sleeping pods in the company’s San Francisco office. Ben & Jerry’s, the ice cream maker, has had a designated nap room at its Vermont headquarters for many years, with some employees utilizing the space responsibly, according to company spokesperson Sean Greenwood.
Arianna Huffington, co-founder of the news website Huffington Post, promotes the importance of a good night’s sleep and occasional naps following her own health scare in 2007. She introduced nap rooms at her former company, now known as HuffPo, as well as at Thrive Global, the wellness technology company where she currently serves as founder and CEO. Huffington emphasizes that naps can significantly enhance productivity and creativity, particularly after sleepless nights due to various reasons.
Kirsten Perez, a dedicated napper, used to seize her lunch break to nap in her car while working as a marketing manager. Now, working from home for Nvidia in Atlanta, Perez schedules a daily nap in bed, setting a 15-minute alarm and falling asleep quickly. She notes the positive impact on her reasoning and mood, allowing her to combat fatigue during the day effectively.
In certain professions, napping is not only accepted but considered essential. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends naps for nurses working night shifts, although many struggle to find time for rest during their shifts. Neil Wong, inspired by his nurse mother’s challenges, founded Nap York, a facility in Manhattan and Queens offering sleeping pods for rent. The service is popular among super-commuters, UPS drivers, and emergency workers, with discounted rates for essential workers like police officers and firefighters.
“There are two options for sleeping: your own bed at home and a hotel room you could likely find for around 100 dollars,” Wong stated. “Currently, there isn’t a third place that offers tranquility, privacy, and the opportunity to relax.”
