An office protocol, that normally would have been grounds for termination, is now being considered for its many benefits. Several companies are now acknowledging the health benefits of a short nap during the workday, which include increased alertness, enhanced brainpower, and fewer sick days.
It is recommended that adults sleep for at least eight hours every night, however, research has shown that most individuals suffer from broken sleep and fail to get a good nightâs rest. For these individuals, a short nap can help. A quick 15 to 20 minute power nap can provide the boost needed to effectively complete your workday.
There are several progressive companies, such as British Airways, Nike, Pizza Hut and Google, who are now seeking to reap these benefits. These companies have created designated nap rooms or ârenewal roomsâ for their employees, allowed their employees to bring a nap mat for the office, or simply encouraged their employees to sleep at their desk.
Some employers are now encouraging napping for the wellness of their employees. People who take daily 30-minute naps are 37 percent less likely to die from heart disease than those who donât nap, according to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 2007. Naps can also boost the immune systemâtheoretically leading to fewer sick daysâand propel employees into their most alert, energetic, and creative states, say nap advocates. Believers in this protocol feel that a well-rested employee is a pleasant employee, noting that if youâre sleep deprived, youâre going to be moody.
Napping Further Explained
Naps can be broken down into four categories:
- Planned napping, also known as preemptive napping, involves taking a nap before you get sleepy. It is a good thing to do if you know youâre going to have a late night.
- Emergency napping is exactly as it soundsâ taking a nap when youâre so sleepy that you canât properly engage in your current activity.
- Habitual napping is the practice of taking a nap at the same time every day.
- Appetitive napping is the act of napping strictly for enjoyment.
As noted, napping increases alertness, learning capacity, memory and performanceâ and we have known this now for several decades. Naps can also reduce stress, as well as lower blood pressure, which is important for our overall health. So, with the research and results on âpower napping,â it is safe to say that a well-rested employee is a more productive employee.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.