Sleep, we all need it. Though, most Americans do not get enough sleep. Well, sleep is a beautiful thing. There is both medical and scientific-based evidence that shows that sleep ultimately helps you get through the day. Of course, the doctors and scientists who probably confirmed their theories lost a bit of sleep themselves.
So, why do we require sleep? Simple -- our waking lives are filled with our bodies keeping up with what we are doing. During sleep, our body functions rejuvenate and restore what we lost throughout the day.
Then, there are naps. So you've had a long day of classes. Your mental capacity seems to be overloaded and now, you're tired. But, it's only 3 p.m. and you've got an exam in the morning. Well, here are five reasons for you to take a nap everyday:
1. It prevents burnout.
You've had a long day at work or have been in classes all day, and you have so much other stuff to do. A short nap will help reboot your system to keep you going on other tasks you have to get done. A car can't run without fuel, neither can you. Take this from my personal experience.
2. It makes you more productive.
Most of the time when you get home, you don't feel like doing anything else. I get it, you're tired, I'm tired, we're all tired! A 30-minute nap can actually boost your performance. It's just like starting your day all over again. You could even include orange juice and a muffin in there if you'd like, we're not judging.
3. It restores alertness.
When you wake up and after your morning routine, throw a ball in the air and catch it. Now, right before you go to bed try the same thing. Things seem a little different, right? You could probably care less at night because you are so tired. Napping makes you more alert. So, take a nap and throw a ball into the air again, it should feel similar to the effects of when you first woke up this morning. You should be able to concentrate and focus better on your tasks as well.
4. It improves your memory and learning.
Remember that exam you have later this week? Yeah, the one that the teacher reminded you of in class today that you've known about since the semester started. We remember too. Do yourself a favor, study for a little bit, take a 90-minute nap, and get right back to studying. You will do better at remembering and recalling information, which ultimately could lead to better grades. Your mother would be so proud!
5. It lowers the risk of heart disease.
Heart disease is still the #1 cause of death in Americans. Ironic, because all we do is go, go, go. As college students, we stress a lot. Exams, studying, finances, relationships -- it's all stressful! Have no fear! Napping everyday can lower your risk of heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, and other heart-related problems. Not to mention, a stress-induced heart attack (better known in the medical field as a Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy) is a real and scary thing that even children can suffer from.
There you have it folks, five convincing reasons for you to take a nap on a daily basis. Life can be stressful, it is filled with the unknown and takes a toll on your mind and body. It's understandable. But, a nap a day could ultimately keep the doctor away, along with proper diet and exercise, of course. So go on, take that nap about 30-90 minutes everyday; you'll be glad you did. Just make sure you don't forget to do the other tasks that you postponed so you could take a nap. Happy napping!
