Naps are Healthy

Napping- it's not just for children anymore.
For a long time in North America, afternoon naps have been associated with young children, people recuperating from illnesses, or pure laziness. In our busy society, the last thing on the lengthy to-do list of most adults is to stop and catch 40 winks. Recently, however, the benefits of napping has been reconsidered by sleep experts, and even employers.

Sleep deprivation in our society has become a serious epidemic. It is estimated that less than half of all adults and teens are getting a full 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, many getting 6 hours or less. Because people shoulder so many responsibilities, they are often willing to forgo a couple of extra hours each night in order to get things done.

However, in order to function well, our bodies require proper rest just as they require a good diet and physical activity. Not only is sleep deprivation unhealthy, but it can be dangerous. People who are sleep deprived are more prone to accidents and making mistakes.

Scientists are finding that just a little nap in the afternoons is beneficial to a person's health and well being. Sleep studies have shown that people who nap even a half hour each day generally have lower blood pressure, have a decreased risk for heart disease, and are more productive and less stressed in their waking hours. The Rest of the Story
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