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Work naps, the few minutes of shut-eye that employees take during their break time, have benefits and pitfalls.

Work Naps

For many employees, the midday slump is an all-too-familiar experience. According to a recent survey conducted by sleep wellness company Sleep Doctor, approximately one in three workers admits to taking naps during work hours. Interestingly, the survey highlights that Gen Z and millennial men are the most frequent nappers in the workforce.

Benefits

Although taking a brief nap during work hours might seem counterintuitive, research suggests otherwise. Studies, including one conducted by NASA, indicate that strategic naps can significantly enhance performance and alertness. 

Sleep Doctor founder Michael Breus, Ph.D., suggests that a short 20- to 25-minute nap can provide a much-needed energy boost, particularly during the post-lunch dip in alertness.

In addition to boosting performance, napping offers a range of benefits, including relaxation, reduced fatigue, improved mood, enhanced memory, and even lowered blood pressure.

Pitfalls

Despite the benefits, there are potential drawbacks to consider. 

Prolonged or late-day naps can disrupt nighttime sleep patterns, leading to grogginess upon waking-a phenomenon known as sleep inertia. Moreover, people with insomnia or nighttime sleep issues may find that daytime naps exacerbate their problems rather than alleviate them.

Accessibility is another concern. While some workplaces may offer designated nap spaces, many employees lack this luxury, creating disparities in who can benefit from midday rest. 

Furthermore, napping on the job is not without consequences. Among those who indulge in workday naps, a notable percentage report missing deadlines or meetings due to being asleep, and some even face disciplinary actions such as suspension or termination.

Conclusion

While work naps offer clear benefits, they are not universally suitable. It is essential for workers to keep their naps short and timely, ideally before 3 p.m., to avoid disrupting nighttime sleep patterns. Additionally, considering employee circumstances and workplace policies is crucial.

Strategic napping can indeed be a valuable tool for maintaining focus and productivity during the workday. However, it is equally important for workers to address underlying sleep issues and ensure that napping does not become a substitute for healthy nighttime rest.