Afternoon Nap Routine: The Golden Minutes

Sleep is so important. I think one of the reasons for my good health is that I love to sleep. Always have, even as a kid. I truly enjoy it. It repairs your brain and your body. 

I always loved nap time. When I took my two year break between Yahoo! & 500 Startups, napping was a regular routine for me. A good 60 min nap that cleared my head and allowed me to stay up late reading. In retrospect 60 min was probably too long and made me groggy for a few hours after it. 

I’ve discovered the optimal time for me and based on some research studies for most people  is 20 minutes. It’s enough to refresh you but not so much to make you groggy and sleepy. Like many things in life, take the minimal optimal dose. Too much of a good thing is a bad thing. 

So my regular routine when I am not traveling is a nice 15-20 min nap in the afternoon. Especially as I tend to get up very early in the morning for business calls, usually 6 am on weekdays. A short afternoon nap gives you a literal burst of energy, a second wind actually and a clear head when you would otherwise be too tired. Ready for whatever work and life throws your way. 

If you haven’t tried it, you should. Naps are great for you and could greatly improve your productivity.