The Power of Naps

New Research Says Snoozing Could Protect Your Heart

RobinMillerMD

Posted: Feb 20, 07 11:12am

Exercise, eating a fiber-rich diet, keeping your blood pressure in check, and losing weight are the usual things we hear when it comes to being heart-healthy. Now, a recent study from Greece says you can add napping to that list.

Researchers followed over 23,000 healthy men for about six years and found that those who took naps at least three times a week for a minimum of 30 minutes were 37% less likely to die of heart disease than those who did not take regular naps. This effect was especially significant in men who worked.

Naps are good for other reasons. Sleep research has found that 10 to 45 minute naps between the hours of 1 and 4 p.m. can improve alertness, concentration, and productivity at work. Some companies, such as Nike, have "relaxation" rooms specifically for employees to take naps. Others, like British Airways and Pizza Hut, have adopted formal napping policies.

But if your workplace isn't open to a midday siesta, or maybe you're one of those people who can't fall asleep during the day, you should consider taking that same time off for a walk. In the Greek study, scientists think that some of the benefits of napping have to do with decreasing stress hormones, and walking is a definite stress reducer. Another idea to try is taking up meditation. Just 15 minutes can make a huge difference in reducing stress and meditation is known to reinvigorate your body and mind.

We live in a fast-paced world where it is often hard to find enough time to even go to the bathroom. So taking a 20-minute "power" nap may be just the thing to improve your efficiency and productivity, and more importantly, it may protect your heart!

Do you take naps or work for a company that encourages napping? Tell us about it!