Monday, March 9, marks National Napping Day, an annual holiday meant to help Americans recover from the dreaded clock change.
Established in 1999 by a Boston University professor and his wife, it is always the day immediately after daylight saving time begins. The day is meant to help Americans adjust to the time change and raise awareness of the benefits of napping.
Studies have shown that regular napping is associated with a reduced level of risk of death from heart attacks or other heart related problems, according to BU. Napping also makes you feel better by improving your mood and makes you more productive by enhancing your performance.
To participate, you’re encouraged to take a short nap – but don’t push it too late as that might affect your natural sleep schedule. Before 3 p.m. is suggested.
Mayo Clinic recommends keeping naps between 20 to 30 minutes as the longer you nap, the more likely you are to feel groggy after. You should also give yourself time to wake up before diving back into activities.
