How to Power Nap Most Effectively

Power-napping can give you a needed restoration of mental alertness and physical energy. But, napping for too long of a period will have an adverse effect on your productivity and you would actually lose precious time and mental alertness for the day. So, how exactly do you power-nap effectively?

A power nap should be 20 minutes long. Sleeping for any longer could cause unwanted grogginess. Napping for only 20 minutes gives the body a short rest and restores mental alertness and focus levels.

Banish distractions. Turn off the TV and nap in a quiet and dimly lit area to promote a restful sleep.

Get comfortable. It is best to lounge in a natural horizonal sleeping position and to also remove all extra clothing you may be wearing in order to power-nap most comfortably.

Have tea or coffee before your power nap. Caffeine usually takes a minimum of 20 minutes to begin affecting your level of mental alertness. Drinking a cup of caffeinated tea or coffee before a power nap enables you to wake with a heightened level of mental alertness and physical energy.