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Lots of cultures do it. In fact, when I was studying abroad in Italy all the stores and restaurants tended to close in the late afternoon because people were taking an afternoon snooze. It seems absurd in this country, the idea of taking time to sleep when it?s light outside. But it is actually really good for you.
So if you can find the time, have a snooze. If you can't do it on the weekdays, try it on the weekends. You'll be thrilled with the results. Just think cat nap instead of lengthy nap and you'll be naturally rejuvenated.
Sleep research expert Sara Mednick, Ph.D. and author of Take a Nap! Change Your Life, says that "upping our quota of super-efficient sleep maximizes the general benefits of sleep in terms of heart functioning, hormonal maintenance, and cell repair."
In fact, a recent study reported on NewsTarget.com suggests that middle-age working men who take three short naps a week cut their risk of a fatal heart attack and heart problems by 37 percent.
According to Mark R. Rosekind, Ph.D., President and Chief Scientist of Alertness Solution, naps should be around forty-five minutes. The reason for that is that longer naps will put you into deep sleep so you wake up groggy.
To help yourself nap, eat foods that are conducive to napping like dairy and proteins and stay away from processed sugars, caffeine, and fatty foods that can disrupt your napping abilities.
Need proof that it's possible to balance being green and still be a supportive partner and parent? See how Ed Begley, Jr. does it on Planet Green TV's Living with Ed.
