Nobody loves a good nap more than your host here.  There is no arguing that naps are refreshing, whether it’s 5 minutes or 30.  But is it actually good for you? 

Recent studies found that daytime napping is linked with early signs of health problems like respiratory disease and possibly an increased risk of mortality.  However, other studies show that naps have many mental and psychological benefits

So who’s right?  They have been in our routine for hundreds of years.  They say it’s healthy and boosts our alertness, memory, and productivity, right?

Like anything, you have to do it the right way.  Some take a power nap for a few minutes and feel totally rested.  I, for one, don’t really understand how someone can just sleep at will.  Others, myself included, need longer naps.

To get the best idea of what works for you, set your alarm for 10 to 15 minutes, take a short nap, and then ask yourself — how did it make you feel? Then, add or shave off time depending on how groggy you are when you wake up. Just remember the best time to test this is on the weekend, when you have few distractions. Take it from me, during the workday is not the best time to test this theory.

Usually the weekend is the only time I have to take a nap, and even then it’s pretty iffy.  Here are some ways to fake the effects of taking a nap.

Eat breakfast – Experts have been saying this for years.  What you in the morning, sets the tone for the whole day.   Not just a bowl of cereal, either.  Lots of protein – eggs, whole wheat toast, fruit, granola with fruit and nuts

 Drink plenty of cold water – dehydration tends to give us that tired sleepy feeling.

 Go for a walk - But step outside first. The sun will counteract your need to go into hibernation, and both exercise and sunshine will wake you up, however how brief.

Rub your earlobes - Take your thumb and your forefinger and gently rub your ears up and down for 10 to 30 seconds. Like acupuncture, this stimulates blood circulation for energy.  As you do this, add deep breaths.

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